Flags off Pulwama Kabaddi League
Srinagar, April 29: In a bold and far-reaching initiative to reinforce the vision of a Nasha-Mukt Jammu & Kashmir, the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council has rolled out a mega sports engagement campaign aimed at transforming youth energy into discipline, purpose, and excellence through structured sporting platforms.
Marking the beginning of this campaign, the Council on Wednesday announced the launch of the inaugural Pulwama Kabaddi League, a high-intensity, three-day open-category tournament scheduled from May 1 to May 3, 2026, featuring 8 teams and 96 athletes from across the Kashmir Division.
As per a statement, the participating teams, Pulwama Panthers, Midline J&K, Harmokh Warriors (Bandipora), AR Warriors (Bandipora), United Kashmir (Baramulla), AKC Budgam, Kulgam Tigers, and other district contenders, reflect the rising competitive spirit and deepening grassroots footprint of kabaddi across the valley.
Designed as more than just a tournament, the League represents a strategic social intervention, leveraging the power of sport to counter substance abuse, promote healthy lifestyles, and instill discipline and teamwork among youth. The open-age format ensures participation of seasoned as well as emerging players, strengthening the competitive ecosystem at the district level.
Highlighting the growing success of grassroots initiatives, Aamir Hamid Wani of Dadoora, Pulwama, recently earned selection in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 at a base price of ₹9 lakh, an achievement that stands as a testament to the untapped potential of the region.
Building on this momentum, the Sports Council is set to expand the campaign footprint with a volleyball tournament in Shopian, a football league in Anantnag, and a series of women-orientated leagues, ensuring inclusive participation and empowering young women through sport-led engagement.
Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services & Sports, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, emphasised the larger vision behind the initiative, stating:
“Sport is not merely competition; it is a powerful instrument of social transformation. Through these structured engagements, we aim to channel the energies of our youth into constructive pursuits, fostering discipline, resilience, and a drug-free lifestyle. This campaign is a movement towards building a healthier, stronger, and more empowered Jammu & Kashmir.”
He further urged the youth to actively participate in sports and become ambassadors of a drug-free society, contributing collectively to the success of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan.
With a clear focus on youth engagement, grassroots development, and social reform, the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council continues to lead from the front, ushering in a new era where sports becomes both a shield against social challenges and a pathway to excellence.
