Asmita Pencak Silat League 2025 Launched in Srinagar with Over 500 Women Athletes

Srinagar, July 19: The Asmita Pencak Silat League 2025 was formally inaugurated Saturday at the Indoor Stadium, Polo Ground, Srinagar, setting the stage for three days of spirited competition under the Khelo India initiative. The league has drawn over 500 female athletes from across Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to promote women’s empowerment through martial arts and foster a culture of sports excellence.A statement issued here said that organised by the Pencak Silat Association of J&K under the aegis of the Sports Authority of India and the J&K Sports Council, the event commenced with a vibrant display of Pencak Silat techniques performed by participating athletes. Speaking on the occasion, Ms Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, highlighted the growing participation of women in sports and the increasing popularity of Pencak Silat in the region. She announced that Srinagar will play host to the Asian Junior Pencak Silat Championship from 25 to 30 September 2025, featuring competitors from over 15 countries. She noted that such high-profile events are poised to boost sports tourism and place Kashmir firmly on the international sporting map.Gul also extended her appreciation to the parents of the young athletes, particularly the mothers who accompanied their daughters, acknowledging their pivotal role in encouraging girls to pursue careers in sport. Mamta Shree Ojha, Director of Khelo India Games, Sports Authority of India, served as Guest of Honour and praised the efforts of the organisers. She commended Jammu and Kashmir for its hospitality and the enthusiastic support shown by the local community. Other dignitaries present included Abhinav Sharma, Deputy Director, Khelo India Games, Aman Sharma, High Performance Director, SAI, Gopal Kandpal, Joint Commissioner, SAI, Nuzrat Gazala, Sports Officer, Kashmir, Hilal Ahmad and Mohd Iqbal, Managers, J&K Sports Council and Gautam Shukla, also representing the Council. The Asmita Pencak Silat League 2025 stands as a milestone in women’s sports empowerment and reinforces Srinagar’s emergence as a hub for both national and international sporting events.