Budgam, October 10, 2025 – In a heartening display of commitment to inclusive sports and empowerment, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat IAS engaged in an inspiring interaction with the district’s wheelchair cricketers at the Sports Stadium Budgam. The event underscored the District Administration’s dedication to fostering sporting talent among differently-abled individuals, promoting resilience, and ensuring equitable access to opportunities in Jammu & Kashmir’s vibrant sports ecosystem.The gathering, held under the clear autumn skies of Budgam, brought together local wheelchair cricket enthusiasts, coaches, and administrative officials. Dr. Bhat, known for his proactive approach to public welfare and community engagement, commended the athletes for their indomitable spirit and determination. “Your journey on the field is a powerful testament to overcoming barriers and inspiring the youth of Budgam,” he remarked, emphasizing how such initiatives align with the broader vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ through grassroots empowerment.During the interaction, the cricketers shared their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, highlighting the need for enhanced training facilities, adaptive equipment, and competitive platforms. In response, DC Bhat assured comprehensive support from the District Administration, including:
- Financial and Logistical Aid: Allocation of funds for specialized wheelchair cricket kits, maintenance of the Sports Stadium Budgam as a dedicated venue, and transportation assistance for tournaments.
- Training and Development Programs: Collaboration with the Department of Youth Services & Sports (DYSS) to organize regular coaching camps, skill-building workshops, and inclusive leagues across Budgam tehsils.
- Empowerment Initiatives: Integration with government schemes like Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) and Khelo India for scholarships, health check-ups, and motivational sessions to boost mental resilience.
- Event Hosting: Plans to host inter-district wheelchair cricket matches at the stadium, with live streaming to amplify visibility and attract sponsorships.
This outreach is part of Dr. Bhat’s ongoing efforts to prioritize marginalized communities since assuming charge as DC Budgam in June 2025. Earlier initiatives under his leadership have included public darbars for grievance redressal, developmental reviews in craft villages like Kanihama, and preparations for major events such as Independence Day 2025 celebrations at the same Sports Stadium Budgam.
The venue, recently assessed for upgrades including sanitation, water supply, and medical facilities, now stands as a symbol of accessible public spaces.Wheelchair cricket, a fast-growing adaptive sport in India, combines strategy, agility, and teamwork, much like its able-bodied counterpart but played on specialized chairs. In Jammu & Kashmir, where terrain and socio-economic factors pose unique hurdles, such engagements are vital for social inclusion. The Budgam Wheelchair Cricket Team, comprising local talents from areas like Chadoora and BK Pora, has already participated in state-level events, earning accolades for their performances.District officials, including Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Budgam and representatives from the Social Welfare Department, were present to facilitate discussions. Dr. Bhat concluded the meet by flagging off a symbolic practice session, urging the athletes to “play not just for victory, but to redefine possibilities.”This interaction has been hailed by local sports enthusiasts as a milestone in Budgam’s journey toward becoming a hub for para-sports. As the district gears up for upcoming winter leagues, the administration’s pledge signals a brighter future for wheelchair cricketers, blending empowerment with the unyielding sporting spirit of Jammu & Kashmir.
