Srinagar, Mar 08 (KNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised rising sports activities in Jammu and Kashmir, and termed it “Winter Sports Capital” of India.
PM Modi made these remarks during his speech at Srinagar on Thursday where he inaugurated several development projects.
He said that his government had provided multi-purpose indoor stadiums in 17 districts of J&K. He also mentioned that J&K had hosted many national and international events in winter sports, which include Khelo India Winter Games, which saw a massive participation of over 1000 athletes from across the country.
The PM Modi stated that J&K is touching new heights of glory and progress, and urged the youth to take advantage of the opportunities in winter sports. He said that winter sports had the potential to boost tourism, employment, and economy in J&K, and assured the people of his government's full support in this regard.
Pertain to mention the J&K Sports Council hosted several national and international competitions, and engaged the youth in sports activities under the Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat Abhiyan.
The J&K Sports Council has also secured the highest ever medal tally in the national games, which were held in Goa in 2023. J&K athletes have performed admirably at national and international competitions and secured 1259 medals for the period from 2021 to 2024. The council has also facilitated the availability of indoor and outdoor facilities for the athletes.
At the national level, J&K UT athletes secured a stunning total of 77 Gold, 95 Silver, and 112 Bronze Medals, showcasing their prowess and dedication to sports. Moreover, on the international stage, the athletes brought home 01 Gold, 01 Silver, and 02 Bronze medals, further elevating the region's sporting reputation.
J&K UT boasts the highest number of Khelo India Centres in the country. A total of 91 functional centres have been established, providing free training to over 45000 aspiring athletes. These centres, strategically spread across 20 districts, are fostering a robust sporting ecosystem in J&K. These centres have realised the motive of uplifting grassroots level players to podiums.(KNS)