Srinagar, Aug 10: Jammu and Kashmir Sports Minister Satish Sharma on Monday said the government is committed to building a world-class sporting ecosystem in the Union Territory, asserting that talent should not be held back by lack of resources.
Speaking at a Special Cash Award Ceremony for outstanding sportspersons at SKICC Srinagar, Minister Sharma said the athletes being honoured had brought laurels to Jammu and Kashmir through years of sacrifice, hard work and perseverance.
“For every athlete we honour today, this moment is the culmination of years of early mornings, sacrifice, injuries overcome and an unshakeable belief in themselves,” he said.
The minister said the achievements of these sportspersons would inspire youngsters in villages and districts across J&K to dream of reaching the national and international stage. “I want to assure each one of you that this government stands firmly behind our sportspersons,” he said.
Sharma said the government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, was working to create an ecosystem where sporting talent would not be limited by financial constraints or lack of resources.
He said the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism for award money reflected the government’s commitment to ensuring that athletes receive their financial rewards swiftly, transparently and with dignity.
The minister also launched the ‘Icon Against Drugs and Doping’ campaign, calling upon athletes to use their influence to spread awareness among youngsters against drug abuse and doping.
“Our athletes are role models for the entire generation. By standing as icons against drugs and doping, we are sending a powerful message to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir that success is built on discipline and clean sport, not shortcuts,” he said.
Sharma urged sportspersons to carry the message to their academies, districts and communities, saying they could play an important role in building a healthier and more disciplined generation.
He acknowledged the contribution of parents, coaches and mentors, saying their efforts behind the scenes form the foundation of every medal won by an athlete.
The minister said the Department of Youth Services and Sports would continue its efforts to produce more champions while strengthening sporting culture among the youth. Sharma congratulated the award recipients and urged them to continue bringing laurels to Jammu and Kashmir at national and international platforms—(KNO)
