Kashmir Ahead

Govt approves recruitment rules for sportspersons in Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, November 10,2025: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has formally issued the “Jammu and Kashmir Rules, 2022”, paving the way for the recruitment of accomplished athletes into gazetted and non-gazetted government posts across the Union Territory.

According to the notification, only domiciled sportspersons of Jammu and Kashmir are eligible under the scheme. For the gazetted cadre (Level 8, ₹47,600–1,51,100 pay scale), candidates must hold at least a graduate qualification and should have represented India at major international competitions such as the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, or World Cups, or secured a top-three position in recognised international events.

For the non-gazetted cadre (Level 4, ₹25,500–81,100 pay scale), eligibility includes participation or medal-winning performance in approved sports disciplines, with a minimum matriculation (10th pass) qualification.

The new rules allow 30 appointments every calendar year, including 5 gazetted and 25 non-gazetted positions, while also providing for the clearance of backlog vacancies dating back to 2014.

Additional benefits have been introduced to encourage excellence in sports. These include out-of-turn promotions, with one promotion for gazetted officers and two for non-gazetted employees during their service period. Sportspersons will also be eligible for up to five advance increments based on performance and achievements.

The eligibility list includes 44 recognised sports disciplines, covering a wide range of national and international-level events.

A high-level selection committee chaired by the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir will oversee the recruitment process. Members will include officials from the Home Department, General Administration Department (GAD), Youth Services and Sports Department, and the J&K Sports Council to ensure transparency and merit-based selection.

The rules also specify disqualifications for individuals found guilty of doping, match-fixing, or any other integrity violations, with provisions for termination if misconduct is discovered later.

In special cases, athletes who retire from active competition or face career-ending injuries may be offered mentorship or coaching roles under the broader J&K Sports Policy framework.

The government’s decision marks a significant step toward institutionalising sports talent in Jammu and Kashmir by offering job security, recognition, and professional growth to those bringing national and international glory to the Union Territory.

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