New Delhi, Oct 09: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma on Thursday called on Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi.
They held an extensive discussion on measures to strengthen sports infrastructure, enhance youth engagement, and promote athletic excellence in Jammu & Kashmir.
During the meeting, Satish Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum to the Union Minister, reiterating the J&K Government’s commitment to transforming Jammu & Kashmir into a vibrant hub of sports and youth empowerment.
The memorandum detailed key proposals focusing on infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation aligned with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022.
Highlighting the significance of sports as a medium for peace, unity, and integration, Satish Sharma said, “Jammu & Kashmir stands at a defining moment in its sporting journey. With the Centre’s continued support, we can channelize the energy of our youth, nurture their talent, and position J&K as a model of sporting excellence and national unity.”
The Minister sought the Union Government’s assistance in accelerating the development of world-class sports infrastructure, including the establishment of a National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg, modernization of district stadiums with all-weather facilities, and creation of sports amenities at the panchayat level to ensure equitable access for rural youth.
He also called for expanding Khelo India grassroots programs, enhancing scholarship and financial aid schemes for athletes, integrating sports science and physiotherapy into training systems, and promoting public-private partnerships for the management and maintenance of sports facilities.
To encourage sports-linked tourism and international exposure, Satish Sharma proposed the hosting of international winter sports events at Gulmarg, which would position Jammu & Kashmir as a leading global destination for winter and adventure sports.
The Minister further requested the early release of Rs 103.82 crore as proposed earlier for construction of critical sports infrastructure projects under Khelo India, enabling rapid execution of ongoing and planned initiatives.
He also stressed the need for providing funds for promotion of sports in rural areas and funds be placed at each rural Panchayats of Jammu and Kashmir
Reaffirming the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s commitment, Satish Sharma said, “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah we are determined to build a robust, inclusive, and self-sustaining sports ecosystem that empowers our youth and strengthens the spirit of national integration.”
The Union Minister assured that soon policy for promoting sports in rural areas will be framed, besides funds for sports equipment will be provided.
