Ganderbal, Feb 2: Jammu and Kashmir is set to become a hub for world-class sports infrastructure within the next five years, said Sports Minister Satish Sharma during the inauguration of a Basic Snow Skiing course in Sonamarg on Sunday.
The minister emphasised the government’s commitment to promoting winter sports and transforming the region into a premier tourist destination. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Sharma highlighted the significance of the newly launched skiing course in Sonamarg, a first for the region. “Until now, skiing activities were limited to Gulmarg. Today marks a new beginning for Sonamarg, as we want to make it a world-class winter sports destination,” he said.
The minister revealed that during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Sonamarg, discussions were held to develop the area into a top winter tourist destination. “We are taking concrete steps to ensure Sonamarg becomes a hub for winter sports and tourism, creating livelihood opportunities for locals,” Sharma added.
He also stressed on the importance of engaging youth in sports to steer them away from distractions like mobile phones. “We must encourage our children to participate in sports and adopt a disciplined lifestyle. This will help them excel at the national and international levels,” he said.
To support this vision, the Minister said that they have urged the Deputy Commissioner of Ganderbal to identify 8 to 10 kanals of state land in Sonamarg for the construction of a multi-purpose sports facility. “The proposed infrastructure will include a state-of-the-art sports hall, a hostel for athletes, and facilities for various sports courses. We have already started three to four courses today, and this is just the beginning,” Sharma said.
Addressing concerns about the limited size of the existing ice-skating rink, the Minister assured that the issue would be resolved. “We have noted the complaints regarding the small ice-skating rink and will work to expand it to meet the needs of players,” he stated.
About the restoration of Statehood, the Sports Minister said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are eagerly waiting for it. “This region is the crown of India and it deserves priority,” he said. The Minister reiterated that the government is committed to fulfilling all promises made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Regarding the Rehbar-e-Khel employees, Sharma mentioned that discussions would be held with officials in Delhi to address their concerns. “We are working to restore what has been taken away from the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The current government is dedicated to fulfilling all commitments,” he added.
