Top-notch sporting environment: KU's Sports Director outlines ambitious athletics upgrade

The University of Kashmir (KU) appointed Mandeep Singh as its first full-time Director of Physical Education and Sports last week. This strategic move aims to boost sporting culture within the varsity.

In an exclusive conversation with Greater Kashmir, Singh outlined his vision to transform the sports ecosystem at KU. He aims to develop a thriving sports culture by enhancing infrastructure, facilities, and participation.

"In the coming days, I want to build a top-notch sporting environment in the university by upgrading infrastructure and encouraging sports activities,” he said.

To provide strategic direction, KU has started formulating an independent sports policy covering all aspects to ensure greater youth engagement in sports.

“We aim to bring both boys and girls from classes and hostels to the sports grounds and provide them with all necessary facilities,” Singh added.

The new Director revealed that the special focus will be on promoting women's sports. An exclusive sports cell for female students has been proposed along with a dedicated sports tournament.

Since taking charge, Singh has overseen the renovation of existing facilities. Upcoming plans include setting up new sports academies, grounds, gymnasiums, swimming pools, and hostels to groom national and international-level athletes.

Singh said that they will focus on three aspects, which include providing good facilities to established sportspersons, ensuring that mid-level sportspersons are on the ground to develop their game, and locating new talent.

“In addition to playing more sports on a departmental level, we will encourage inter-university and open tournaments so that there is an exchange of skills. We have the best coaches who are at par with international coaches, and we are hopeful of producing the same level of talent. Our aim is that the university will produce international level players who will represent not only J&K but the whole county on an international level,” he added.

Singh said that to encourage students to university, they will develop a credit-based system so that students will get credit in academics for playing, and there will be provision so that relaxation is given in their attendance. He said this will help students in treating sports just like academic subjects.

“We will also focus on infrastructure like floodlights and developing an international-level cricket stadium. There will also be an indoor playing hall for sports like basketball and volleyball,” he said.

Singh has over 17 years of expertise in the field and has served at Jammu University as well. With two doctorates in Physical Education and Yoga Science, Singh said that he will do everything to elevate the sports at the university.