Anantnag, Jun 26 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Science & Technology, ARI & Trainings, and Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma on Thursday reviewed the preparedness for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026 at Chandanwari before attending a sports event at Kashmiri Pandit Colony, Vessu, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening grassroots sports infrastructure and youth development.
During his visit to Chandanwari, the Minister took stock of the preparedness and reviewed the facilities being established for the annual pilgrimage. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination among all concerned departments to ensure that adequate arrangements are put in place for the convenience, safety and well-being of the yatris. He emphasised that all necessary works and services must be completed in a timely manner so that the pilgrimage is conducted in a smooth, safe and well-organised manner.
Later,he attended a sports event at Kashmiri Pandit Colony, Vessu.
While addressing the gathering at Vessu, Satish Sharma said that sports are a powerful instrument for shaping a healthy, disciplined and progressive society. He said that the youth possess immense talent and energy and it is the collective responsibility of society and the government to provide them with the right platforms, facilities and encouragement so that they can excel in sports and contribute positively to society.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youth, residents and sports enthusiasts, reflecting the growing spirit of sports and collective community involvement in the area. Organised to promote physical fitness, discipline and camaraderie among the youth, the programme served as a vibrant platform for bringing the community together through healthy sporting activities.
Satish Sharma said that sports are not merely recreational activities but a powerful medium for building discipline, confidence, leadership and social harmony among the youth. He said that such events at the grassroots level play a vital role in channelising the energy of young people towards positive and productive pursuits, while also helping in identifying emerging talent.
“Sports are a powerful instrument for shaping a healthy, disciplined and progressive society. Our youth possess immense talent and energy, and it is our collective responsibility to provide them with the right platforms, facilities and encouragement so that they can excel in sports and contribute positively to society. Events like this not only promote physical fitness and competitive spirit, but also strengthen bonds of unity, brotherhood and mutual respect within the community,” the Minister said.
Satish Sharma said that the government is committed to taking sports infrastructure and youth-centric initiatives to every nook and corner of Jammu and Kashmir. “We are working with a clear vision to create more opportunities for young people, identify talent at the grassroots and ensure that our youth have access to modern facilities and proper guidance. Sports must become a mass movement in Jammu and Kashmir, and such community-level events are an important step in that direction,” he added.
The Minister emphasised that the government is committed to creating a robust sports ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir by strengthening infrastructure, expanding access to sporting facilities and ensuring greater opportunities for youth participation in sports and allied activities. He said that the focus is on taking sports to every corner of Jammu and Kashmir so that young talent, irrespective of background or geography, gets a fair chance to grow and excel.
Satish Sharma also highlighted the importance of community-based sports initiatives in fostering social cohesion and mutual understanding. He said that sports have the unique ability to unite people across social and cultural backgrounds and help in building a sense of togetherness, cooperation and shared purpose.
Interacting with the participants and local residents, the Minister appreciated the enthusiasm shown by the youth and encouraged them to actively take part in sports and other constructive activities. He said that youth are the real strength of society and their participation in sports not only contributes to personal development but also to the larger goal of building a healthy, progressive and vibrant Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister reiterated that the Youth Services & Sports Department will continue to support initiatives that encourage mass participation in sports and create opportunities for young players to hone their skills. He said that the government remains focused on nurturing talent, promoting fitness and using sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment and social transformation. (JKNS)
