Says Progress Lies in Joint Efforts of Centre & J&K Govt.
Suhail Khan
Jammu, April 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday stated that the days are not far when the people of Jammu and Kashmir will witness Indian Premier League (IPL) matches live in the Union Territory, rather than solely relying on television broadcasts.
Speaking at the inauguration of a multi-storeyed Municipal Parking Complex in Kathua—jointly inaugurated with Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh—Abdullah, as per Kashmir Despatch, emphasized the critical role of coordinated efforts between the Jammu and Kashmir Government and the Central Government in driving the region’s development.
“The progress of Jammu and Kashmir hinges on collaborative efforts between the J&K Government and the Central Government to secure a brighter future,” he said, assuring the public that his administration remains committed to working with the Centre to enhance citizens’ quality of life.
Abdullah highlighted his government’s focus on delivering essential services such as drinking water, electricity, road infrastructure, healthcare, and education. He stressed the urgency of completing ongoing development projects, stating, “My priority is to finalize projects already underway and sustain the momentum of progress.”
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced a major infrastructure project in memory of former Union Minister Arun Jaitley. Chief Minister Abdullah pledged full support for the initiative, adding, “With such collaborations, the day will soon come when people watch IPL matches live in Jammu and Kashmir, not just on TV.”
Notably, during a recent assembly session, Omar Abdullah reiterated his government’s goal to revolutionize the sports sector, aiming to redirect youth “being drawn toward negative influences” by actively engaging them in sports.
Abdullah outlined his government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure in every village, ensuring that youth have ample opportunities to participate in sports.
“Our youth are being diverted toward the wrong paths. We want them to be actively engaged in sports and to help make Jammu and Kashmir a sports hub—whether it’s for traditional sports, adventure sports, or winter sports,” he said.
