JAMMU, JANUARY 08: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today morning interacted with the victorious Jammu and Kashmir under-16 cricket team after they clinched the Vijay Merchant Trophy (Plate Group) title, marking a historic achievement for Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chief Minister met each player individually and enquired about their personal as well as team performance. Expressing his admiration for their outstanding display on the field, he encouraged the young cricketers to continue their winning momentum and strive for greater excellence in future. He also took keen interest in their academic pursuits and other interests beyond sports.
Congratulating the team on their remarkable feat, the Chief Minister said, “Your victory reflects not just talent, but teamwork, discipline and dedication. You have made the entire J&K proud.”
On the occasion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah presented an appreciation trophy to the victorious team, led by Captain Smagey Khajuria, in recognition of their exceptional performance and contribution to sports in J&K.
It is noteworthy that on January 6, Jammu and Kashmir defeated Mizoram by an innings and 182 runs on the third day of the final played in Surat, Gujarat. With this emphatic win, J&K lifted the Vijay Merchant Trophy for the first time, marking a proud moment in J&K’s sporting history.
JAMMU, JANUARY 6: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, today lauded the organisers of the BIG Jammu & Kashmir Premier League (BIG JKPL) 2025–26 for creating a vibrant and professional sporting platform for the youth of Jammu & Kashmir.
The Minister was speaking after attending the grand finale and prize distribution ceremony of the BIG JKPL at the University of Jammu Ground, where Royal Goodwill Cricket Club emerged champions after a thrilling final.
Satish Sharma felicitated the winning and runner-up teams and congratulated the players for displaying exceptional sportsmanship, discipline and competitive spirit.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that the Omar Abdullah-led government is committed towards strengthening the sports infrastructure, encouraging youth participation and nurturing grassroots talent across Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasized that tournaments like BIG JKPL provide local players an opportunity to showcase their talent on a big platform and open pathways for professional careers in sports.
The Minister also appreciated 92.7 BIG FM and its partners for organising a high-quality league that attracted massive public participation and brought together young cricketers from different parts of the Union Territory. He said that such events not only promote physical fitness but also instil values of teamwork, discipline and unity among the youth.
Satish Sharma further said that his department will continue to support initiatives that promote sports and youth engagement. He added that the government aims to make Jammu & Kashmir a hub of sporting excellence.
The BIG JKPL 2025–26 concluded on a high note with huge crowds and an electrifying finale, reflecting the growing popularity of cricket and sports culture in the region.
Attends closing ceremony of 29th UT Billiards, Snooker Championship
JAMMU, DECEMBER 29: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today attended the closing ceremony of the 29th UT Billiards & Snooker Championship 2025 at the Billiards & Snooker Hall, M.A. Stadium, Jammu, as the Chief Guest.
The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma and Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani.
Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, was also present during the ceremony, along with senior officials and sports enthusiasts.
The championship was organised by The Billiards & Snooker Association J&K which witnessed enthusiastic participation of nearly 200 players from across J&K, reflecting the growing popularity of cue sports in Jammu and Kashmir.
On the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister felicitated the participants and winners of the championship. He appreciated the organisers for successfully conducting the event over an extended duration in a well-organised manner.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that sports play a vital role in keeping the individuals physically and mentally fit. Besides, it serves as a powerful medium to channelize the energy of youth towards a positive and constructive direction.
He stated that the Jammu and Kashmir government is giving special focus to the promotion of sports and is committed to create world-class sports infrastructure in all districts of J&K.
He assured continued support to the sporting bodies and associations to nurture talent and provide platforms for young athletes to excel at national and international level.
JAMMU, DECEMBER 18: The J&K Sports Council in collaboration with the J&K Indian Style Wrestling Association, is set to organise the International Dangal and “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” Title Championship, a first-of-its-kind event in the region aimed at promoting youth engagement, health and fitness while preserving the rich heritage of indigenous sports.
The championship will be held on 20th December 2025 here at M.A. Stadium and is expected to draw large public participation and widespread media attention.
Wrestling, popularly known as Dangal, Kushti or Pahalwani, is an integral part of the cultural legacy of Jammu, especially in rural and border belts where it has been nurtured for generations.
Preserving and promoting such traditional sports is essential not only to safeguard cultural identity but also to pass on values of discipline, strength, resilience and community bonding to the younger generation.
Through this championship, the stakeholders aim to revive this age-old sport by providing a modern, professional platform while retaining its traditional essence.
More than 50 national and international wrestlers are expected to participate in the grand event, including renowned athletes from countries such as Russia and Iran and other Asian countries along with top wrestlers from across India.
The championship, being organised with technical support from the Indian Style Wrestling Federation of India, is poised to showcase high-quality competition and elevate the standard of indigenous wrestling in the region.
The event will also serve as an effective platform to propagate key government social initiatives, particularly the “Nasha Mukt Abhiyan” and the ongoing war against drugs. By actively engaging youth in sports and physical fitness, the championship seeks to promote a healthy, disciplined and drug-free lifestyle, underlining the role of sports as a powerful tool for positive social change.
The Government of Jammu & Kashmir, through the Department of Youth Services and Sports alongside J&K Sports Council, continues to play a proactive role in strengthening sports infrastructure, encouraging traditional and modern sports alike, and creating opportunities for athletes at all levels. Such initiatives reflect the government’s broader vision of making Jammu & Kashmir a vibrant hub of national and international sports activities, while also boosting sports tourism and providing exposure to local talent.
In addition to open category bouts, the championship would introduce the prestigious “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” Title, to be contested exclusively by wrestlers above 85 kg.
The title winner will be awarded a cash prize of ₹50,000 along with traditional honours of Gurj (Gadda) and Patta, while the runner-up and other position holders will receive appropriate cash prizes. Around 50 wrestlers, supported by 15–20 officials, are expected to take part, with an anticipated audience of 10,000–15,000 spectators.
The general public is invited to witness this grand sporting spectacle at M.A. Stadium, Jammu, from 11:30 AM onwards on 20th December 2025. Entry to the event will be free for all.
Anantnag, December 15: Police in Anantnag organised the Shaheed Humayun Muzamil T-20 Cricket Tournament under the Civic Action Programme (CAP) at Government Degree College (GDC) Anantnag, aimed at promoting sports, discipline, and positive engagement among youth.
The tournament is witnessing participation from eight teams. The inaugural match was played between GDC Anantnag and Royal King Boon, which generated great enthusiasm among players and spectators. GDC Anantnag won the inaugural match convincingly by 52 runs. The initiative reflects J&K Police’s commitment to encouraging youth towards healthy and constructive activities, strengthening police-public relations, and fostering a spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Police reiterated its resolve to continue organizing such community-oriented and youth-centric programmes under the Civic Action Programme.
LG calls upon players, youth to dream big and define clear goals in life and make them reality with hard work, dedication and perseverance
The power of sports can transform individuals, society and the nation: LG Sinha
We must believe in ourselves, promote shared values, embrace the challenges and stay focussed to foster national identity and unity: LG
JAMMU, DECEMBER 8: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday called upon the players and youth to dream big and define clear goals in life and make them reality with hard work, dedication and perseverance.
“The power of sports can transform individuals, society and the nation. We must believe in ourselves, promote shared values, embrace the challenges and stay focussed to foster national identity and unity,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of 6th edition of Kashmiri Pandit Premier League (KPPL) at M.A Stadium, Jammu. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his felicitations and best wishes to all the participating players and everyone associated with the Kashmiri Pandit Premier League.
The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Government of India and UT Administration is committed to the welfare of Kashmiri Pandit Community.
The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Lalitaditya Sports Education and Health Organization, for its dedicated efforts towards promotion of sports.
He asked the members of the Organization to partner with schools and government departments in other states/UTs to connect with youth.
He further emphasised on developing a long-term empowerment roadmap and integrating skill training and career preparation for the youth from Kashmiri Pandit Community, building on the success of initiatives like the LG Special Camp. Shri Ashish Kachroo, Vice President, Lalitaditya Sports Education and Health Organization; Shri Vinay Koul, General Secretary; Shri Ankur Bagati, Coordinator; Shri P N Tickoo, Shri Deepak Raina, Shri Raman Raina and other members of the organisation, prominent citizens and sportspersons were present.
The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; Dr. Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) J&K; Ms Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council and senior officials of Civil and Police Administration.
Awantipora, December 4: The 6th Vice Chancellor’s Rolling Trophy Cricket Tournament (Employees) was inaugurated today at the Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) by Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST. The tournament has been organized by the Directorate of Physical Education & Sports and witnessed enthusiastic participation from university employees. Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, and Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi Registrar, IUST, were the inaugural ceremony as Guests of Honour. The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Mr. Sameer Wazir Finance Officer, Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Research, Dr. Mohd. Imran, University Librarian, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Rather and Dr. Mubashir Hussain, Assistant Directors, Directorate of Physical Education & Sports, along with various Heads of departments. In his inaugural address, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo congratulated the Directorate of Physical Education & Sports for organizing the event and expressed happiness over the active participation of faculty and staff members. He emphasized that such sporting events promote teamwork, discipline, and a healthy work culture within the institution. He added that sports not only build physical fitness but also strengthen institutional harmony and emotional well-being, which are vital for academic excellence. The first match was played between Administration Team-A and the School of Business Studies, and different employee teams will participate in the tournament in the coming days.
JAMMU, NOVEMBER 26: Minister for FCS&CA, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, IT, ARI and Trainings, Satish Sharma, today attended inaugurals of the 42nd Junior (Boys & Girls) National Tennikoit Championship which commenced today at Green Field, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu.
The five-day national championship, organized under the aegis of the Tennikoit Federation of India and the J&K Tennikoit Association, in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council and the Department of Youth Services & Sports, has brought together nearly 550 players and officials from 23 States and Union Territories. Satish Sharma interacted with the players and officials and applauded the high level of enthusiasm and participation. He said : “It is encouraging to see young athletes from across the nation gather in Jammu with such passion and sportsmanship. National championships like this reinforce unity, promote healthy competition, and contribute to the overall development of youth. The government remains committed to providing every support to nurture sports talent in Jammu & Kashmir.”
Senior representatives of the Tennikoit Federation of India, the J&K Tennikoit Association and the J&K Sports Council were also present and expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and the spirited environment at the venue.
Youth must step up against organisations and individuals involved in Radicalisation in the valley: LG Sinha
Lieutenant Governor asks the youth to nurture the spirit of oneness and build a better world, free of discrimination
Young athletes are the architects of the nation’s destiny and they are responsible for promoting the spirit of national unity to build a golden future of this country: LG Sinha
Youthful energy working for the national goals usher dynamism into the society: LG
Dream big and have the courage to make those dreams come true: LG to Youth
JAMMU, NOVEMBER 25: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Tuesday called upon the Youth to step up against organisations and individuals involved in Radicalisation in the Kashmir valley.
He was speaking at the closing ceremony of 69th National School Games-2025 organised by Department of Youth Services & Sports and School Games Federation of India (SGFI) at Jammu.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor asked the youth to nurture the spirit of oneness and build a better world, free of discrimination.
“Young athletes are the architects of the nation’s destiny and they are responsible for promoting the spirit of national unity to build a golden future of this country. Youthful energy working for the national goals usher dynamism into the society,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor congratulated all the winners and participants. He also extended his felicitations to the teams’ management, coaches, and officials for the successful conduct of the National School Games.
“Dream big and have the courage to make those dreams come true. As role models, you hold a special place in society and have a huge responsibility to inspire the coming generations, both on and off the field. From the sports field to the grassroots level, you must continuously strive for progressive policies and social transformation through sports,” the Lieutenant Governor told the youth.
The Lieutenant Governor handed over trophies to the winners and other top performing teams and the players who excelled in the different games’ disciplines. He also released a Compendium of Department of Youth Services and Sports.
The Games successfully featured four disciplines: Football, Wushu, Taekwondo, and Table Tennis, drawing participation from athletes across 34 states and union territories.
Ms. Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner/Secretary to Government, Youth Services and Sports; Ms Anuradha Gupta, Director General Youth Services and Sports; senior officials, prominent sports personalities, and youth in large number attended the closing ceremony.
UDHAMPUR, NOVEMBER 24: Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai today felicitated Pritama Devi, the silver medalist at the Sub-Junior National Judo Championship and Chief Judo Coach, Suraj Bhan Singh for bringing pride to the district.
Pritama Devi, daughter of Yashpal and a resident of Shivnagar, Devika, Udhampur, bagged a silver medal in the Sub-Junior National Judo Championship held in Hyderabad, Telangana, from 16 to 20 November 2025. Pritama has been consistently training at the Subhash Stadium Indoor Complex Judo Hall under the expert coaching of Suraj Bhan Singh, Chief Judo Coach, J&K Sports Council.
This year, 16 players from Jammu & Kashmir, including 8 boys and 8 girls participated in the national championship.
In addition to Pritama’s silver medal in the minus 40 kg weight category, athletes from Ganderbal, Kashmir, secured two bronze medals, marking a strong overall performance by the UT contingent.
While congratulating the young athlete, the DC commended Pritama’s dedication, discipline and hard work. She also acknowledged the pivotal role of Coach, Suraj Bhan Singh in nurturing the emerging talent in the region. Highlighting the significance of the sports, the DC remarked that Judo serves as an empowering and effective self-defense discipline for girls.
