Jammu, Jan 23 (JKNS): Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, with special focus on providing modern facilities to youth in far-flung and border areas, to nurture talent and promote inclusive development.
The Deputy Chief Minister was speaking after inaugurating the ASMITA Khelo India Women’s League North Zone Kickboxing Tournament 2026 at the Gymnasium Hall, University of Jammu.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the Deputy Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to women athletes and officials from various North Zone States and Union Territories, describing the event as a significant step towards promotion of sports and women empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The present government is focused on ensuring equitable development and providing essential facilities, including sports infrastructure, in villages and far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir. This will empower our rural youth to showcase and further hone their sporting talent,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister lauded the ASMITA initiative for creating meaningful opportunities for women athletes and for strengthening sports at the grassroots level.
“It is encouraging to see our young boys and girls participating in sports with such energy and commitment. This gives us confidence that the future of our country is in safe and capable hands,” he said.
He observed that national unity, peace and stability remain paramount for Jammu and Kashmir and emphasised the need for collective strength to ensure a peaceful and resilient nation.
Describing Jammu and Kashmir as a land of natural beauty, cultural richness and harmony, the Deputy Chief Minister welcomed the visiting teams and delegates and urged them to experience the region’s warmth and hospitality. He reiterated the government’s commitment towards peace, development and inclusive progress in the Union Territory.
Expressing happiness over the participation of distinguished guests and delegates from across the country, he said their presence reflected goodwill and encouragement. He added that such sporting events stand as a strong testament to the government’s resolve to nurture women athletes and strengthen the overall sports ecosystem in the region.
The tournament is witnessing participation of around 600 women athletes and 100 officials representing nine States and Union Territories of the North Zone, making it one of the largest women’s kickboxing events in the region.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Santosh Agrawal, President, WAKO India Kickboxing Federation; Sanjay Yadav, Senior Vice President, WAKO India Kickboxing Federation; and Gaurav Chopra, Vice President, Kickboxing Association of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dawood Iqbal Baba, Director Sports, University of Jammu, presented the vote of thanks.
The prestigious national-level women’s kickboxing championship is being organised by the Kickboxing Association of Jammu and Kashmir under the aegis of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Khelo India.
Earlier, the opening ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Abhishek Jain, General Secretary, Kickboxing Association of Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)
