GAME-CHANGER General Bipin Rawat Stadium ignites sports fervour in Baramulla

Baramulla, Jan 16: The iconic Jehlum Stadium in Azad Gunj, Baramulla, has been officially renamed as General Bipin Rawat Stadium, honouring the late General Bipin Rawat, the first Chief of Defence Staff.

The inauguration ceremony took place on Tuesday, with LG Manoj Sinha gracing the event and unveiling a series of projects for the Baramulla district.

This significant transformation has ignited a sense of optimism among the residents of Baramulla, as the late General Rawat is remembered for his pivotal role in the progress and development of the town. The inauguration marked Governor Sinha's maiden visit to the old town of Baramulla.

Local residents while expressing their sentiment, acknowledge General Rawat's influence on the town's development and particularly his contribution to shaping the future of the youth.

Ghulam Rasool, a resident of the old town, who was part of today's event said that General Bipin Rawat holds a special place in the hearts of the people, especially of Baramulla town.

“The newly christened Bipin Rawat Stadium is seen as a beacon for the youth to showcase their talents in the realm of sports,” said Ghulam Rasool.

The stadium has become Baramulla's central hub for sports activities, hosting various tournaments, including the Varmul Cup, North Kashmir Premier League, Baramulla Premier League, Corporate Tournament for different Government Departments, and the Women’s Premier League.

In the past year, the stadium has witnessed around 7 tournaments and approximately 300 matches, providing a platform for hundreds of players to exhibit their skills. Notably, the stadium has contributed to the rise of talented cricketer Abid Nabi, who is currently participating in the Ranji Trophy and was selected as a net bowler for the IPL.

While the stadium has undergone a remarkable transformation, local sports enthusiasts are hopeful for further infrastructure upgrades.

Zubair Ahmad, the General Secretary of Baramulla Cricket Forum, expressed optimism about the potential of hosting national events at the stadium, fostering the sports spirit among the youth in the Baramulla district.

Sports enthusiasts here are particularly keen on improving facilities such as floodlights for night matches, better outfields, upgraded washrooms, and enhanced car parking facilities.

The overall sentiment is one of hope, with expectations that the Bipin Rawat Stadium will soon become a landmark for national-level sports events, paving the way for aspiring athletes from the area.