To enhance the sports infrastructure in the valley Multiple indoor sports complexes, which are all-weather sports facilities, have been set up in every district. Lights have been installed in many stadiums, allowing sports activities to be carried out for extended periods. Moreover, several projects are currently underway, which will be dedicated to sports enthusiasts in the days to come.
Rising Kashmir’s sports correspondent , M Omer interviews Nuzhat Gul, Secretary Sports Council J&K. MS Nuzhat shares her views on the sports infrastructure in Valley, and the prerequisites to enhance the same.
What is the status of indoor sports stadiums in the districts?
Almost every district has a functional indoor sports complex where regular coaching and learning classes are in progress.
Why don’t we tap into other places like Yousmarg for winter sports?
Sonmarg and Pahalgam will host winter sports activities in the future, and Yousmarg may join the list too. The J&K Sports Council is growing, and the expansion in sports activities must correspond with the expansion in sports infrastructure and other allied facilities.
Can international events be held in Gulmarg, or does it need any certification for that?
The slopes and quality of snow in Gulmarg are renowned worldwide, and it’s a world-class tourist destination. With more games and allied sports facilities, it’s easy to speculate that Gulmarg will become one of the most sought-after winter sports destinations in the future.
Some athletes feel dismayed by the treatment of the Sports Council. What is the Sports Council doing in that regard?
The Sports Council is trying to reach athletes through various sports activities and its My Youth My Pride sports flagship program, which reaches athletes at their doorsteps. However, there may be some pockets where they are yet to reach, and any legitimate grievances will be addressed sooner rather than later.
E-gaming or e-sports is gaining popularity in the country. Is the Sports Council planning to support the e-gamers of Kashmir?
The Sports Council advocates for a healthy mind and healthy body, which is only possible by indulging in sports physically. So, we at sports council do not encourage e-gaming. Also, there are currently no such plans for an e-sports ground in Kashmir.
Small games like chess and carrom find it hard to hold tournaments. Why is it so?
This statement is not accurate. Last year in April 2022, we hosted the U10 National Chess Championship in which players from more than 25 states participated. Last month, we also hosted the National Chess Championship in Rapid and Blitz events, and many more national and international events are in the pipeline.
The Khelo India Winter Games recently concluded in Gulmarg. How did it impact the local players?
The Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) provides a big platform for elite athletes from all over the country to participate, exposing local players to varied levels of competition. This exposure makes them more competitive and skilled, and it’s only a matter of time before our winter sports athletes make it big not only on the national but also on the international level.
How will the Sports Council take forward the winners of the Khelo India Winter Games, and how did the Sports Council benefit from this event?
KIWG provided a much-needed platform for our budding athletes and paved the way for setting up the Khelo India Centre of Excellence in Gulmarg. This center will help in grooming our athletes professionally and is one more feather in our cap.
