Srinagar, March 05: Recognizing sports as a key driver of youth development, the J&K government on Wednesday informed the Assembly that a proposal to construct an international-standard cricket stadium in Hiranagar, Jammu, is under consideration. If approved, the facility could transform the region’s cricketing landscape and open doors for high-profile events, including potential Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.
Responding to a query raised by National Conference chief spokesperson and MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, the government reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure across the Union Territory. “Providing world-class sports facilities is essential for fostering talent and keeping youth engaged in positive activities,” the government stated.
To boost sports infrastructure, several key initiatives have been undertaken. The government stated that “29 multi-sport indoor halls have been established across all 20 districts, with five more under development.” Additionally, “floodlights have been installed in approximately 60 stadiums and playfields, significantly increasing playing hours and generating enthusiasm among young athletes.”
Highlighting the success of the Khelo India initiative, the government said that J&K has the highest number of sanctioned Khelo India Centres in the country — 100 in total, with five per district. Currently, 92 centres are operational, providing training, infrastructure, coaching, equipment and apparel to around 4,500 children, many from remote areas. “This initiative is already showing results, with our young athletes securing medals at national competitions,” it said.
In terms of elite training facilities, two Khelo India State Centres of Excellence have been established — one at Nehru Park, Srinagar, specializing in rowing, kayaking and canoeing, and another at M.A. Stadium, Jammu, dedicated to fencing. Additionally, investments in synthetic turfs for volleyball, football, athletics, and hockey aim to “elevate J&K athletes to the national and international stage.”
On the subject of IPL matches in Kashmir, the government clarified that hosting such events falls under the purview of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA). However, “the M.A. Cricket Stadium in Jammu has been upgraded under the Prime Minister’s Development Programme, and several cricket playfields have been developed across the region.”
J&K has also made significant strides in reviving international cricket. The government highlighted the successful organization of the Legends League Cricket at Srinagar’s Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium and Jammu’s M.A. Stadium, featuring 120 international cricketers. “This event marked the return of international cricket to J&K after over three decades, projecting the region as a safe destination for future sporting events,” the government added.
As for the proposed IPL-standard stadium in Hiranagar, the government stressed that “such a project requires substantial funding and the availability of suitable state land.” The J&K Sports Council remains committed to “developing stadiums and playfields wherever land is provided free of cost and funds are available.”
