Jammu, Sep 30 (JKNS): Young athletes across Jammu and Kashmir took part in Taekwondo and Volleyball competitions as the J&K Sports Council continued its efforts to provide competitive platforms and promote grassroots sports.
In Shopian, the Shah Payaan UT-Level Taekwondo Championship 2026 continued with more than 350 athletes from 17 districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The championship has brought together boys and girls from across the region, giving them an important platform to compete, gain exposure and showcase their skills.
Organised by the Taekwondo Association of District Shopian and affiliated with the J&K Taekwondo Association, the championship reflects the growing popularity of Taekwondo among young athletes. It also highlights the importance of UT-level competitions in identifying and nurturing emerging sporting talent.
Meanwhile, under the My Youth My Pride initiative, a special Volleyball competition was held at the Indoor Hall, Kishtwar. More than 100 young athletes, including boys and girls, took part, while over 150 spectators watched the competition.
The event gave young volleyball players from Kishtwar and surrounding areas an opportunity to compete in a structured sporting environment closer to their homes. Refreshments were also provided to the participating athletes.
The sporting activities in Kishtwar and Shopian reflect the continued focus on taking sports opportunities to districts, rural and far-flung areas, and on ensuring wider participation of youth.
Through initiatives such as My Youth My Pride and regular district and UT-level competitions, the J&K Sports Council is facilitating training, competition and talent identification across different sporting disciplines.
The ongoing Taekwondo championship in Shopian and the Volleyball competition in Kishtwar underline the growing participation of boys and girls in organised sports. They also contribute towards building a stronger grassroots sporting ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)