SRINAGAR, JUNE 10: In a major boost to the sporting fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir and a significant step towards creating sustainable career opportunities for the athletes, Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, Wednesday congratulated the 223 outstanding sportspersons who have been selected for appointment to government services under the sports quota.
Terming the recruitment as a landmark achievement in the government’s efforts to promote sports and youth empowerment, the Minister said that the selection of such a large number of athletes reflects the administration’s commitment towards honouring the sporting excellence and ensuring that talented sportspersons are provided meaningful opportunities beyond the playing arena.
The Minister expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister for his unwavering support and keen interest in strengthening the sports ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. He informed that the appointment orders would be formally handed over to the selected candidates by the Chief Minister at a special ceremony, marking a proud and memorable occasion for the athletes and their families.
Satish Sharma said that the government under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has adopted a comprehensive approach towards sports development, focusing not only on infrastructure creation and competitive excellence but also on ensuring social and economic security for athletes who dedicate years of hard work and perseverance to bring laurels to Jammu and Kashmir.
“The selection of 223 sportspersons for government employment is not merely a recruitment process; it is a recognition of the discipline, commitment, sacrifices and achievements of our young athletes. It sends a strong message that excellence in sports will be respected, rewarded and supported by the government,” the Minister said.
He observed that sports have emerged as a powerful vehicle for youth engagement, character-building, leadership development and social transformation. He added that by creating assured career pathways for athletes, the government is encouraging young people to pursue sports with greater confidence and commitment.
The Minister highlighted various initiatives being undertaken to strengthen the sports landscape across the Union Territory, including the upgradation of sports infrastructure, development of modern training facilities, organization of competitive events at district and state level, promotion of grassroots talent identification programmes and enhanced support for athletes participating in national and international competitions.
He said that Jammu and Kashmir has consistently produced talented sportspersons who have excelled in diverse disciplines and brought recognition to the region at national and international forums. The government, he added, is determined to create an enabling environment where such talent can flourish through sustained institutional support, professional coaching, scientific training methods and improved access to opportunities.
Satish Sharma said that the sports quota recruitment fulfils a long-standing aspiration of many athletes who have dedicated themselves to excellence despite numerous challenges. He said the initiative will not only provide financial stability and career security to the selected candidates but will also inspire thousands of aspiring sportspersons across Jammu and Kashmir to take up sports as a serious and rewarding pursuit.
The Minister called upon the educational institutions, sports associations, coaches and parents to work collectively towards nurturing sporting talent and creating a culture of excellence. He emphasized that the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s sporting success lies in strengthening grassroots participation and ensuring that every talented youth receives adequate opportunities to showcase their potential.
Reiterating the government’s vision of making Jammu and Kashmir a hub of sporting excellence, Satish Sharma said that sports are no longer confined to recreation but have evolved into a dynamic sector offering opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, international exposure and social mobility.
“The success of these 223 sportspersons belongs not only to them and their families but to the entire sporting community of Jammu and Kashmir. Their achievements will inspire a new generation of athletes to dream bigger, work harder and contribute to the progress and prestige of the Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
The Minister extended his warm congratulations to all the selected candidates and wished them success in their future careers. He expressed confidence that they would continue to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and serve as role models for the youth while contributing meaningfully to public service and the development of Jammu and Kashmir.
