61 lakh youth in action, 639 medals won on national & international stages
Srinagar, Mar 7: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an unprecedented sports boom, with a staggering 61 lakh youth actively participating in various athletic disciplines in 2024-25.
The region's athletes have showcased their dominance on both national and international platforms, clinching an impressive 639 medals across multiple competitions.
The Economic Survey tabled by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Legislative Assembly has stated that widespread participation of athletes in sports activities underscores the commitment of the government to foster a healthy and active lifestyle among youth.
As per the economic survey, athletes won 549 medals during the financial year 2023-24, which include 169 gold medals, 170 silver medals, and 210 bronze medals bagged by J&K participants at the national level.
Also, the athletes from J&K have also bagged eight gold medals, four each silver and bronze medals at the international stage.
"During the year 2024–25, 639 medals were bagged by athletes at the national level, which include 239 gold, 150 silver, and 250 bronze medals. Three gold medals, two silver medals, and 10 bronze medals were bagged by the athletes by competing at the international level," it reads.
The Economic Survey states that the J&K government envisions a vibrant sports culture that empowers its citizens through physical activity, aiming to prevent social evils like anti-social behaviour and substance abuse.
"The sports department is spearheading the development of world-class sports infrastructure across J&K. This includes constructing playfields, stadiums, indoor sports halls, and various sports courts at every Panchayat level to ensure that youth from all corners of J&K can engage in sports activities," it reads.
The Economic Survey states that the introduction of the J&K Sports Policy 2022 is aimed at institutionalising sports across Jammu and Kashmir while providing specific coaching to promising athletes and financial support to recognised sports associations.
"100 Small Khelo India centres have been sanctioned in J&K (5 per district), out of which 92 are functional," reads the document.
It reads that the efforts of the government have yielded significant achievements, with athletes securing numerous medals at national and international competitions.
"Cricket, football, volleyball, and Wushu academies have been established for institutionalisation of the sports learning process. In addition, sports academies in the disciplines of hockey, gymnastics, water sports, judo, and TT have also been set up," it reads.
As per the economic survey, the J&K government is aiming to expand its focus on inclusivity, with special initiatives for senior citizens, housewives, transgender individuals, and specially-abled athletes.
"Plans include further developing high-performance centres and promoting sports-related research to preserve traditional games. By leveraging sports as a tool for holistic youth development and societal well-being, the government is paving the way for a healthier, more prosperous future," it reads.
