Sumaya Jan
Srinagar, Oct 19: To keep youth attached with sports, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has stressed for development of playfields in every block of Jammu and Kashmir.
Sources said Sinha has taken a serious note that poor sports infrastructure was creating hurdles in the performance of players as Jammu and Kashmir has only 137 play fields against the requirement of 2500.
“Lieutenant Governor has issued strict restrictions for promotion of sports. It has been decided that a playfield should be developed in every block of Jammu and Kashmir. The step is being taken to keep children attached to sports and away from drugs,” the official said.
He said lack of play fields have been affecting the performance of players. “The existing play fields are also in bad shape. Only a few grounds have drainage systems in place”.
“There is also a dearth of trained coaches almost in every sport. Our youth are well talented but are not getting proper training due to lack of play fields, coaches and other requirements,” the official said.
Jammu and Kashmir has produced some of the sports persons, who represent national teams in cricket, football, water sports, and chess. “While comparing to other Indian states or UTs, the number is very less. This is because we don’t have infrastructure available here,” the official added.
Jammu and Kashmir has a population of over Rs 1.2 crore and there is a requirement of 2500 play fields as per the figures of JK Sports Council.
JK has only 137 playing fields available to its huge number of talented sportsmen. (KINS)
