Sports related infrastructure

While importance is being given to the promotion of sports, there is a need to improve the overall infrastructure. There is dearth of playgrounds across Jammu and Kashmir. While the playgrounds are in some areas, there is a growing demand for such facilities for other areas.

More and more playgrounds are being demanded in Srinagar city, towns and villages. The lack of playing fields is preventing the youth to take part in sports related activities.

They have to reach far off places to do sports. Some youngsters can be seen playing in streets or on the roads – cricket or football – due to non-availability of fields. This affects the movement of vehicles and pedestrians in the streets or on roads. Involving youth in sports is becoming imperative.

The highly talented and hardworking players can prove their mettle and play at top local, national and international. Jammu and Kashmir has produced very prominent sports personalities in past and more youth are emerging at national and international levels.

Taking part in sports has its own advantages. It is good for physical and mental fitness. Sports teach a person discipline of high degree and handling of success and failure.

Handling of success and failure has become very important in present times in view of the increasing stress in our lives. The sports engagements help youth in de-stressing and being positive in life and other normal activities.

At a time when drug addiction among the youth is a cause of concern, sports can play a vital role in countering the menace. In schools, colleges and universities the sports related activities must get more attention. In some educational institutions there is shortage of sports facilities. Subsequently, students are unable to take part in sports.

The facilities have to be created wherever unavailable and upgraded wherever existing. The inter-school, inter- college and inter-university matches must be held frequently. The best teams and players must be encouraged and honoured.

The parents should not discourage their children from taking part in sports. They should be encouraged. Several parents do not allow their kids to take part in sports. They fear that while indulging in sports, the kids may not focus on their studies. A balance has to be struck so that children do take part in sports and their activities do not affect studies at the same time.