Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir possess immense sporting talent and enthusiasm but are deprived of opportunities and exposure.
In a post on X CM Omar as per news agency JKNS wrote, Thank you for highlighting the keen interest the boys & girls of J&K have for all sports @narendramodi ji.
The youth of J&K don’t lack for talent or enthusiasm, unfortunately they lack opportunity & exposure. Your mention of their sporting prowess will certainly add to their enthusiasm, post reads.
I hope corporate India will also play its part by using their CSR funds to help develop sports infrastructure in J&K, reads the post.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned Jammu and Kashmir saying that UT has showcased remarkable progress in sports, citing the successful Royal Premier League and the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival as milestones.
Speaking in the 125th episode of Mann Ki Baat, the PM Modi as per JKNS said, “Amidst the devastation caused by floods and rains, Jammu and Kashmir has also achieved some remarkable milestones that have gone largely unnoticed. Once you learn about them, you will feel immense joy.”
Referring to the Royal Premier League, PM Modi underlined that Pulwama hosted the region’s maiden day-night cricket match before a record crowd. “Thousands of people, especially youth, enjoying cricket at night in Pulwama it was a sight to behold,” he said.
He further praised the Khelo India Water Sports Festival at Dal Lake, Srinagar, which brought together over 800 athletes from across the country. He noted that women’s participation was nearly equal to that of men and congratulated medal winners, particularly Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Odisha.
The Prime Minister also recounted his conversations with medalists Rashmita Sahoo from Odisha who has won 41 medals including 13 gold and Mohsin Ali from Srinagar, who clinched gold at the event. Modi said both athletes reflected the promise of youth and the pride of their regions.
“The warmth and hospitality of the government and people of Jammu and Kashmir have left a lasting impression on the athletes,” PM Modi added. (JKNS)