Srinagar, Aug 10 (JKNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s special cash award scheme for sportspersons is only the beginning, assuring athletes of greater support in terms of infrastructure, coaching, training, equipment and financial assistance.
Speaking at the Special Cash Award Ceremony honouring outstanding sportspersons at SKICC Srinagar, as per news agency JKNS, Chief Minister said the government wants to ensure that athletes do not have to struggle to arrange resources for coaching, training, equipment and travel.
“This award is just the beginning. We are trying to encourage you, and we will try our best to help you in every way possible,” CM Omar Abdullah said.
He said the government must also accept its responsibility for the success of sportspersons, noting that athletes can deliver better results when provided with proper facilities and infrastructure.
The Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir still has a long way to go in developing sports infrastructure, particularly synthetic tracks, indoor facilities and international-standard training facilities.
He pointed out that the Union Territory has only a limited number of synthetic tracks, with several facilities not readily accessible to athletes, and stressed the need to develop proper sports infrastructure at the district level.
CM Omar said the geographical advantage of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly its altitude, should be utilised for establishing high-quality training centres and promoting high-altitude training for athletes.
He also called for greater focus on sports beyond cricket, including martial arts, cycling, mountain biking, BMX, skateboarding, gymnastics and roller sports, saying athletes from these disciplines have already demonstrated significant potential.
Referring to recent achievements in cricket and Mixed Martial Arts, the Chief Minister said the government needs to maintain a balance between established sports and emerging disciplines.
He further stressed that keeping youth away from drugs cannot remain a one-day campaign and said sustained sports activities and better infrastructure are essential to keeping young people engaged.
Omar also appreciated sportspersons and sports icons for supporting the government’s anti-drug and anti-doping campaign, saying the initiative would be taken to schools to promote clean and fair sports.
Congratulating the 580 athletes who received cash awards, the Chief Minister expressed hope that they would achieve greater success and bring laurels to their families, Jammu and Kashmir and the country. (JKNS)