Gulmarg, Feb 22 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Sports Minister Satish Sharma on Sunday said that the “age of terrorism is over” and asserted that this is the era of India, with J&K set to emerge as a leading hub in sports and sustainable development.
Speaking to reporters in Gulmarg on the sidelines of the inauguration second leg of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games 2026, as per news agency JKNS, Sharma extended greetings on the holy month of Ramzan and said more than 500 athletes, both international and domestic, have already arrived for the games.
“First of all, I would like to congratulate everyone on the holy month of Ramzan. Today is the 6th edition of the Khelo India Games in Jammu and Kashmir. More than 500 athletes have come so far,” he said.
Minister Sharma said participants have come from across the country and abroad. “People are coming from every corner East, West, South and North. We are not getting rooms today, but we will make alternative arrangements, including homestays. Our people are peace-loving people and we send a message of love to the whole world,” he said.
In a strong message, Sharma remarked, “We are tourists and they are terrorists. Hatred cannot be erased with hatred; hatred can be erased with love. We send a message of love to all the people of India. You should come. You will not have any problem.”
He said the government is determined to set new tourism records and personally assured visitors of support. “If you have any problem, I will meet you on the streets. Usually ministers do not behave like this, but I behave like a chief. This is my commitment,” he said.
Referring to sporting milestones, Sharma said J&K has reached the Ranji Trophy finals for the first time in 70 years and is witnessing progress in water sports and downhill mountain biking. “Everything is happening for the first time. I think the age of terrorism is over. The future of our children is great—whether in IT, sports or science and technology,” he said.
Calling it the “age of India,” the Minister said J&K will be among the top three in sports in the next four to five years. He also referred to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, saying, “I will try to keep CM Mr. Omar’s head high and your head high. Mr. Omar has thought something great for you.”
Emphasising the role of media, he added, “You are the fourth pillar. We need good media. We need media which is unbiased.” (JKNS)