JAMMU: Minister for Youth, Services and Sports, Satish Sharma Saturday remarked that Jammu and Kashmir is steadily emerging as hub of sporting activities, owing to sustained government support, improved infrastructure and increasing youth participation.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing the grand closing ceremony of the International Kushti Dangal and “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” Title Championship, held at M.A. Stadium here.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that the government is committed to strengthen sports infrastructure, expanding grassroots participation and integrating technology and innovation to promote sports excellence across urban and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the Jammu & Kashmir’s rising stature on the national and international sports map, the Minister underlined that the growing frequency of national and international tournaments in the region is a clear indicator of Jammu & Kashmir’s evolving sports ecosystem.
While felicitating the winners and participants during the closing ceremony, Satish Sharma congratulated the athletes for their outstanding performances and said that such international-level events reflect the positive transformation of Jammu & Kashmir into a vibrant sports destination. “Revival and promotion of traditional sports like Kushti not only preserve cultural heritage but also provide meaningful avenues for youth engagement, fitness and discipline,” the Minister stated.
Secretary, Sports Council in her address said that the overwhelming response from athletes and spectators reflects a thriving sports culture in the Union Territory. She emphasised that promotion of indigenous sports will continue to receive focused attention.
President, Indian Style Wrestling Association of J&K, while speaking on the occasion, expressed gratitude to the J&K Government and the Minister for their continued encouragement. He lauded the efforts of officials, referees and volunteers for the successful conduct of the championship.
The championship witnessed participation of Wrestlers from different parts of India and abroad, who showcased exceptional skill and strength, transforming the event into a spectacular celebration of indigenous sports.
The highlight of the championship was the “Rustam-e-Jammu & Kashmir” Title bout, in which Ishaq Ahmad demonstrated remarkable strength and technique to clinch the coveted title. Aamir Khan secured the runner-up position, followed by Diler Khan and Sadaq Gajansoo.
Among the prominent bouts, Dinesh Dankar defeated Tamarlan of Russia, Balu Bodake of Maharashtra outplayed Khetag from Russia, while Tedo from Georgia registered a victory over Bania Min of Jammu. In other encounters, Hamid from Iran defeated Lucky Kohli of Punjab, Nadeem from Doda (J&K) emerged victorious against Irfan from Iran, and Arjun from Jammu defeated Mohammad from Iran.
Addresses ‘Celebration of Life 2025’ at Jammu
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Science and Technology, Satish Sharma addressed the Special National Conclave ‘Celebration of Life 2025’, organised by Federation of Indian Blood Donors Organisations (FIBDO), Jammu & Kashmir Chapter, at Police Auditorium here Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Satish Sharma lauded the selfless contribution of voluntary blood donors, describing them as “unsung heroes who save lives without discrimination.” He emphasized that voluntary blood donation is a powerful example of social responsibility and collective humanity.
The Minister highlighted the Government’s commitment to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, encouraging youth participation in social service, and promoting awareness campaigns that instil a culture of voluntary blood donation, particularly among young people.
Satish Sharma also appreciated FIBDO’s nationwide efforts, including its advocacy for reforms in blood transfusion services, and acknowledged the relevance of the campaign #FIBDO Demands Blood Act in ensuring transparency, efficiency and donor-friendly policies in the blood management system.
The Minister further called upon educational institutions, youth organisations, sports bodies and civil society groups to actively partner in blood donation drives, stating that Jammu and Kashmir is steadily emerging as a hub of youth-led social and sports-driven initiatives, complementing the government’s vision of inclusive development and people-centric governance.
On the occasion, the Minister also felicitated several voluntary blood donors and organisations for their outstanding contribution towards saving lives.
Pertinently, the national-level conclave marked 15 years of dedicated service of FIBDO in promoting voluntary blood donation and strengthening the lifesaving healthcare ecosystem across the country. The event witnessed participation of blood donor organisations, healthcare experts, social workers and civil society representatives from various states.
