Category: SPORTS

SRINAGAR, MAY 13: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma along with MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, on Wednesday unveiled the customised jersey for the upcoming Khyber Run for ShahreKhaas 2026 at SAMCI, Rajbagh, ahead of the much-awaited heritage run scheduled to be held on May 17 in Srinagar’s old city.

The event marks revival of the iconic Run for ShahreKhaas after nearly a decade and is being organised by Fucan Sports in collaboration with KSW. The initiative has generated tremendous enthusiasm among the athletes across Jammu and Kashmir, with registrations closing within just 48 hours of opening.

Around 150 professional athletes from different parts of Kashmir are expected to participate in the 10-kilometre run, which will pass through several historic landmarks of downtown Srinagar before culminating at Islamia College Campus, Hawal.

Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma lauded the organisers for reviving a sporting event that blends fitness with the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar’s old city.

“It is encouraging to see sports activities being organised in downtown Srinagar. Such events play a vital role in promoting fitness, discipline and a healthy lifestyle among the youth while also showcasing the cultural and historical significance of the old city,” maintained the Minister.

Satish Sharma said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the government is committed towards strengthening the sports ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir and encouraging greater youth participation in sports and fitness activities.

“We are working towards building a vibrant sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir by leading through participation and example. Increasing participation in sports and fitness activities is also helping guide youth away from drug abuse and towards positive and constructive pursuits,” he added.

The Minister also appreciated the overwhelming response received for the event and said such initiatives reflect the growing enthusiasm among young people towards sports and fitness.

Speaking on the occasion, Tanvir Sadiq termed it a privilege to once again be associated with the event that he had flagged off nearly ten years ago.

“The USP of this run is that it highlights the rich heritage of Srinagar’s old city while promoting a healthy lifestyle. The route starts in my constituency and concludes back in my constituency after covering almost all the historic areas of downtown Srinagar. Last time, I flagged off the event and this time, I will personally run alongside the athletes,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of fitness in combating drug abuse, Tanvir Sadiq said awareness against the drug menace should remain a continuous effort.

“Events like these, where people lead by example, are the perfect way to encourage the youth towards fitness and help them stay away from drugs,” he added.

Recalling the legacy of the event, he said Run for ShahreKhaas remained a regular feature in Srinagar’s old city until 2015 and expressed hope that future editions would witness even wider participation and additional categories.

The 10-kilometre route will commence from Badamwari Gate and pass through Kathidarwaza, Chattipadshahi, Rainawari, Khanyar, Nowpora, Khayam, Munawarabad, Baba Dawood Khaki Bridge, Baba Demb, Fateh Kadal, Khankah, New Zaina Kadal, Old Zaina Kadal, Budshah Tomb, Saraf Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Malaratta, Nowhatta, Jamia Masjid and Gojwara before concluding at Islamia College Campus, Hawal.

All the participants will receive customised finisher medals, T-shirts and participation certificates.

The event is supported by NITians Career Institute, Paristaan, Adlife and Media Line, while Khyber is the title sponsor.

Among those present on the occasion were J&K SnowShoe Association President Tariq Ghani, General Secretary Dr Altaf-ur-Rehman, Organising Secretary Reyaz Wani, and noted athletes Mushtaq Bhat, Gulzar Khan, Hamid and Suhail Zahid Kota.

Kupwara, April 21: J&K police inaugurated women’s T20 cricket tournament under CAP 2025-26 in Kupwara. The inaugural ceremony was graced by SSP Kupwara Shri. Al Tahir Gilani (JKPS) as Chief Guest, along with DySP Dar, SHO Women PS Kupwara, and other officers. A large number of spectators attended the event.
The Chief Guest unveiled the tournament trophy and declared the event open, appreciating the initiative to promote women’s empowerment through sports and encouraging discipline, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle. The event aims to boost women’s participation in sports and strengthen community engagement through positive initiatives.

SRINAGAR, APRIL 21: Department of Physical Education of the Government College of Education (GCoE) M.A. Road, Srinagar, today organized an Intra-Mural Tournament in Badminton and Volleyball for students and staff at the college Multipurpose Hall.

The event was formally inaugurated by the Principal, Prof. Dr. Seema Naz, in the presence of Convenor Sports, Prof. Mohd Yasin.
The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across different streams, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere. The event aimed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship among the participants.
In the Volleyball final, the UG team delivered an impressive performance and defeated the B.Ed 1st Semester team by 2–0 sets to clinch the title.
In the Badminton final, the pair of Mohsin and Zubaid (UG) showcased excellent coordination and skill, defeating A.B. Rehman and Mohd. Ashraf (B.Ed 3rd Semester) to emerge as winners.
The matches were played in the true spirit of sportsmanship, and the event concluded successfully with great enthusiasm.

JAMMU, APRIL 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today launched the trophy for the 2nd edition of the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Tournament and unveiled the team jerseys at Maulana Azad Stadium here.

At the launch ceremony, Minister for Agriculture Javid Ahmed Dar, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, tournament organizer Tejinder Singh, along with other organizers, participating teams and concerned officials, were present.

The Chief Minister unveiled the trophy for the day-and-night 2nd Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Tournament and also released the official jerseys of the participating teams.

Interacting with the players on the occasion, the Chief Minister wished them the best of luck for the tournament.

The 2nd edition of the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Tournament is being organized as part of a social awareness initiative aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle.

The tournament underscores the importance of staying away from substance abuse and encourages engagement in constructive activities like sports.

Community leaders, organizers and participants highlighted the role of cricket in fostering unity and inspiring youth to lead healthier and more disciplined lives.

SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: ASMITA Pencak Silat State League 2025 (J&K) commenced today at the Indoor Sports Complex, Polo Ground Srinagar, bringing together around 550 girls from various districts of Jammu & Kashmir to compete and showcase their skills in the traditional martial art of Pencak Silat.

The opening ceremony was graced by Nusrat Ghazala, Divisional Sports Officer Kashmir (J&K Sports Council) as the Chief Guest, while Hilal Ahmad, Manager J&K Sports Council, Polo Ground, attended the ceremony as the Guest of Honour.

The dignitaries appreciated the initiative of organizing a large-scale women’s sporting event aimed at empowering young girls through sports.

While addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest emphasized the importance of sports in building confidence, discipline, and leadership among young women. She praised the growing participation of girls in sports across Jammu & Kashmir and highlighted that such platforms play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing emerging talent.

The ASMITA Pencak Silat State League is being organized as part of the Khelo India initiative, which focuses on strengthening women’s participation in sports across the country. The league provides an important competitive platform for female athletes and encourages them to pursue excellence in martial arts.

During the event, athletes displayed great enthusiasm and determination, reflecting the increasing popularity of Pencak Silat in the region. The competition features multiple age and weight categories, allowing young athletes to compete and gain valuable exposure at the state level.

The organizers expressed their gratitude to the Secretary J&K Sports Council for their continuous support and for providing excellent facilities at the Polo Ground Indoor Sports Complex for the successful conduct of the event.

The two-day league, scheduled from 14th to 15th March 2025, is expected to witness exciting bouts and outstanding performances by young female athletes from across the Union Territory, further strengthening the movement for women empowerment through sports in Jammu & Kashmir.

JAMMU, MARCH 10: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh today felicitated the Jammu & Kashmir Ranji Trophy team for historic achievement of winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title in the 2025–26 season, marking a landmark moment in the sporting history of the Union Territory.

The felicitation ceremony was held in presence of Chief Justice Arun Palli along with Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Justice Sanjay Dhar, Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary, Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, Justice Rajesh Sekhri and Justice Sanjay Parihar besides Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

The ceremony was also attended by Brigadier Anil Gupta, Member Administration JKCA, Registrar General, M. K. Sharma, other officers of the Registry of the High Court, members of Bar and other dignitaries.

Congratulating the team, the Chief Justice and Judges praised the players for their dedication, perseverance, discipline and teamwork, which culminated in this historic triumph. It was observed that the victory reflects the resilience and sporting excellence of the young players and serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring sportspersons across Jammu & Kashmir and the country.

During the event, commemorative T-shirts were presented to the members of the victorious team, including Captain Paras Dogra, as a token of appreciation for their extraordinary achievement. The Judges also presented a commemorative trophy to the team in recognition of their historic triumph.

Speakers on the occasion noted that Jammu & Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy victory, since the team’s Ranji debut in 1959, represents a moment of profound pride and historic significance for the region. The achievement was described as a testament to the players’ unwavering determination and commitment to excellence.

The High Court also expressed pride in associating with this momentous achievement and celebrating the success of the young champions who have brought immense joy and recognition to Jammu & Kashmir.

JAMMU, MARCH 09: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today hosted a dinner in honour of the Jammu & Kashmir Ranji Trophy champion team, celebrating their remarkable achievement.
The team was warmly received by the Chief Minister in the presence of his Cabinet colleagues and senior officers. On the occasion, the players were also presented with an award money of ₹2 crore in recognition of their outstanding performance.
President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Mithun Manhas, was also present at the event.
Congratulating the players, the Chief Minister lauded their dedication and perseverance, saying their achievement has brought immense pride to Jammu & Kashmir. He wished them continued success and encouraged them to keep striving for excellence and making the region proud on the national stage.
Among those present on the occasion were Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary; Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana, Javid Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma; Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Commissioner Secretary Youth Services & Sports Shahid Iqbal Choudhary; Director General Youth Services & Sports, JKCA administrators and members, Secretary Sports Council and other senior officers.

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.