Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, met Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi to discuss the urgent need for enhanced support for sports infrastructure and youth development in Jammu and Kashmir.
During this pivotal meeting, Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum outlining the J&K Government’s aspirations to transform the region into a vibrant sports hub that empowers youth.
His proposals emphasized the significance of improving infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation. These align closely with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022, furthering the goal of promoting athletics at all levels.
Sharma highlighted the necessity of world-class facilities, requesting the Union Government’s assistance in developing the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence in Gulmarg. He also stressed modernizing district stadiums to include all-weather infrastructure, while urging the creation of sports amenities at the panchayat level. This aims to guarantee rural youth equitable access to sports opportunities.
In addition, Sharma advocated expanding the Khelo India grassroots programs, enhancing scholarship and financial aid for aspiring athletes. He underscored the integration of sports science and physiotherapy into athlete training systems, recognizing their crucial role in performance enhancement.
To promote sports-linked tourism and ensure global exposure, Sharma proposed that Jammu and Kashmir host international winter sports events in Gulmarg. This initiative positions Jammu & Kashmir as a renowned destination for adventure sports, potentially boosting local economies.
The Minister also called for the urgent release of ₹103.82 crore under the Khelo India scheme, aimed at completing several critical sports infrastructure projects in J&K.
In response, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya assured Sharma that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would be framed soon. He also pledged to provide funds for sports equipment to support both ongoing and upcoming sports initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
The interaction between Sharma and Mandaviya signals a promising alliance in enhancing sports infrastructure and youth engagement, with both leaders recognizing the need for strategic investments to foster athletic talent in Jammu and Kashmir.
