Emphasizes Need to Upgrade Infrastructure for Enhanced Athlete Experience
Government Aims for Transformative Change in Sports Sector Within 4.5 Years
Suhail Khan
Gulmarg, March 12 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah asserted on Wednesday that Khelo India-inspired sports programs could empower locals in Jammu and Kashmir to secure sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) in Gulmarg, Abdullah as per Kashmir Despatch highlighted the success of the event’s four-year run and underscored its potential to generate economic opportunities for residents. “These initiatives not only promote sports but also create avenues for employment and skill development,” he said.
The Chief Minister stressed the urgent need to modernize sports infrastructure to ensure seamless experiences for athletes and officials. “Our goal is to position Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for sports and adventure tourism,” he added, outlining his administration’s vision to drive transformative changes in the sector over the next four and a half years.
Reaffirming Gulmarg’s title as the Winter Sports Capital of India, Abdullah noted that the region pioneered skiing development in the country. He traced the evolution of local infrastructure, including chairlifts and the Gondola Phase 2 project, but acknowledged gaps in meeting contemporary demands. “Much of Gulmarg’s infrastructure dates to the British era. While progress has been made, it falls short of the growing needs of winter sports and tourism,” he stated.
Drawing parallels with Central Asian nations like Uzbekistan, which now attract international skiers with world-class facilities, Abdullah urged strategic investments. “To compete globally, we must prioritize cutting-edge infrastructure,” he emphasized.
The Chief Minister also advocated diversifying sports beyond mainstream disciplines like cricket and football. “Emerging sports such as pickleball require minimal space and resonate with youth. We must broaden our focus to include these opportunities,” he said, pledging to develop accessible sports infrastructure in every village.
Addressing challenges faced by youth, Abdullah remarked, “We aim to channel their energy into sports rather than letting them stray onto misguided paths. Our vision is to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a hub for traditional, adventure, and winter sports.”
He revealed that substantial funds had been earmarked for sports development in the recent J&K budget, signaling the government’s commitment. “The next 4.5 years will witness a paradigm shift in this sector,” he affirmed.
In a lighter vein, Abdullah shared his own skiing mishap earlier that day, attributing it to the snow’s high water content. “If I struggled, imagine the athletes’ perseverance. Their resilience in tough conditions deserves applause,” he said, praising participants for excelling despite delayed preparations due to erratic snowfall.
The Chief Minister extended an invitation to Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, urging him to visit Gulmarg and explore Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism potential. He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts behind the 5th KIWG, which was nearly postponed until timely snowfall salvaged the event.
“By the grace of the Almighty, the games proceeded successfully,” Abdullah concluded, lauding athletes and organizers for their dedication.
Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, emphasized that hosting the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg was in line with PM Modi’s vision.
“There is a need for improving infrastructure to give a seamless experience to the sportspersons and officials. Such events help locals earn livelihood.”
MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah highlighted the economic potential of upgrading skiing infrastructure.
“Kashmir can be the Switzerland of Asia.
Gulmarg has the potential to attract lakhs of tourists. However, this resort needs at least 10 chairlifts for the skiers. If we upgrade the skiing infrastructure in Gulmarg and Kongdoori, we can attract lakhs of skiers, and our country can earn huge foreign exchange.”
The event witnessed presence of Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sarmad Hafiz, Commissioner of Youth Services & Sports; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Minga Sherpa, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla; and Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
