SHAKEELA ANDRABI
SRINAGAR: The government is trying to make Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) a sports hub, by introducing world-class infrastructure and a new sports policy for Union Territory. According to Sports Council of Jammu and Kashmir, around 500 athletes won medals in various games at the national level. There has been a massive change in sports infrastructure across J&K. Many new stadiums of international level have been built while many others are being constructed in various districts of Union Territory. Sports Council of Jammu and Kashmir is pushing youngsters to take up sports. Kashmir Division has shown immense potential in national games in various sports. Hundreds of medals have been brought home by these young athletes in the national tournaments,” said Sports Officer. “We get a lot of time to train. We won so many medals last year at national level, including 70 Gold, around 90 silver and 145 bronze. It is result of continuous efforts of all from last 3-4 years. A lot of changes have been made in the department,” he informed. J&K also received a special 200-crore package and special sports festivals are being organised in every district of Union territory to look for budding talent in these areas for providing them necessary training to become professional athletes. “Youth of valley are happy about the changes in the sports sector. Girls in large numbers are taking up sports and representing India at national and international events. Recently, twin sisters, Ayeera and Ansa Chisti, famously known as Chisti sisters from Kashmir, brought laurels to J&K by winning gold and silver medals in the 56 Kg weight category in International Wushu championship held in Georgia,” he informed adding that during last two years, Kashmir athletes have proved their mettle. While Arif Khan represented India at Winter Olympics in Beijing, Sadia Tariq won India a gold medal at Moscow Wushu Championship. Bilquis Mir, Director Water Sports, also became the first Kashmiri woman to act as a judge at Olympics. The government has also been supporting sports activities to keep youth away from drugs and other illegal activities. The youngsters who pick up sports not only make a name for them but also earn out of it besides inspiring others to a great extent.