Aaqib Khan
Srinagar, Feb 9 : Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma on Monday said Jammu and Kashmir has significant sports potential across regions and assured that the government would focus on creating infrastructure and platforms for athletes over the next four years.
Addressing reporters, Sharma said players from Kashmir valley, Chenab valley, Poonch and Rajouri have performed well in cricket and football, while athletes from Jammu have shown strength in athletics and wrestling.
“There is a lot of potential in sports in Jammu and Kashmir. We have excellent players and region-specific games. What is needed is infrastructure and a proper platform,” he said.
Sharma said the government plans to develop sports facilities and host major sporting events in the Union Territory. “In the next four years, we will provide such infrastructure. We will also have IPL here,” he said.
He said international-standard tournaments would be organised in Jammu and Kashmir, including events in water sports, cycling and wrestling. “This is the first time such tournaments are being planned in water sports and cycling. Wrestling events will also be held,” he said.
Sharma said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has proposed hosting the Commonwealth Kho-Kho event in the Union Territory. “There will be many such events. A film festival will also be organised,” he added.
Referring to the future of the Union Territory, Sharma said development and progress would remain the focus of the government. “The future of Jammu and Kashmir depends on Omar Abdullah. He will do wonders in the coming years,” he said.
Sharma criticised the opposition, accusing it of opposing government initiatives without reason. “They are opposing for no reason. People have rejected them and they have been rejected for five years,” he said.
He alleged that the opposition was creating frustration. “They should do healthy opposition. Creating disturbance serves no purpose,” he said.
The minister also made remarks directed at PDP legislators during the event, questioning their conduct in the Assembly.
Sharma said the government remains committed to promoting sports, cultural activities and large-scale events in Jammu and Kashmir to provide opportunities to youth and strengthen infrastructure across regions.(KNS).
