Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, met with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi today. The discussion centered on enhancing sports infrastructure and engaging youth in Jammu and Kashmir.
Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum, emphasizing the J&K Government’s dedication to transforming the Union Territory into a dynamic center for sports and youth empowerment.
This memorandum outlined crucial proposals for infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation, aligning with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022.
During the meeting, Sharma requested Union Government support to accelerate the establishment of top-tier facilities, including the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg, modernization efforts for district stadiums with all-weather infrastructure, and creating sports amenities at the panchayat level to guarantee equitable access for rural youth.
Moreover, he advocated for the expansion of Khelo India grassroots programs, increasing scholarships and financial assistance for athletes, incorporating sports science and physiotherapy into training regimens, and fostering public-private partnerships for effective sports infrastructure management.
Sharma also aimed to boost sports-linked tourism and global exposure by proposing the hosting of international winter sports events in Gulmarg, with the goal of positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a premier global destination for winter and adventure sports.
Additionally, he stressed the need for an expedited release of ₹103.82 crore under Khelo India for the completion of vital sports infrastructure projects.
In response, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya assured Sharma that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports will soon be established. He also confirmed that funds for sports equipment would be allocated to support both ongoing and upcoming initiatives.