Satish Sharma meets Mansukh Mandaviya to discuss J&K sports development

Satish Sharma, Minister for FCS & CA, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology, Science and Technology, ARI & Trainings, met with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi to discuss key initiatives aimed at the overall development of Jammu and Kashmir, with a special focus on Youth Services and Sports.

During the meeting, Minister Sharma expressed his deep appreciation for the significant initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and highlighted the crucial role these efforts have played in enhancing the sports ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged the Ministry’s consistent support and proactive efforts, which have greatly contributed to the region’s sports development.

Minister Sharma emphasized that programs like Khelo India have been instrumental in identifying and nurturing young talent in Jammu and Kashmir. He further noted that the upgrades to sports infrastructure under various central schemes have brought renewed hope and enthusiasm to the youth of the region, fueling their aspirations to excel in sports.

Recognizing Jammu and Kashmir’s unique geographical and cultural diversity, Sharma underscored the immense sports potential in the region. He highlighted the growing aspirations of the youth to succeed in sports, stressing that these ambitions require enhanced infrastructure and focused developmental initiatives.

The Minister proposed several initiatives to further bolster J&K’s sports ecosystem, including establishing Khelo India centers and infrastructure in rural and border areas, such as Akhnoor, Rajouri, Poonch, and Kupwara, and setting up SAI centers to promote sports like handball in these regions. He also suggested promoting adventure and winter sports in J&K’s famous destinations, such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, and other snow-bound areas, to attract both national and international events. Furthermore, he called for augmenting existing facilities at Gulmarg and other potential hubs to develop winter sports infrastructure.

Minister Sharma also proposed introducing specialized programs to support high-performance coaching for football, wrestling, table tennis, water sports, and hockey, as well as implementing a scheme similar to the North East’s peace and development initiative, focused on providing equipment and support for sports development. He emphasized the need for Khelo India Talent Identification Camps in remote areas to ensure inclusivity and tap into untapped potential. Additionally, Sharma suggested launching skill development programs for coaches, trainers, and sports administrators to ensure professional management and further strengthen the sports ecosystem in J&K.

Dr. Mandaviya listened attentively to the issues and proposals put forth by Minister Sharma and assured that the Ministry would consider these demands for prompt action. He reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to providing better sports infrastructure and modern facilities in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the government’s unwavering support for the youth of the region to achieve their full potential through sports.

The meeting concluded with a shared vision for a brighter future for J&K’s youth, powered by the transformative potential of sports.

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