Pulwama, Jan 22: Naeil-ud-Din, a student from Jammu and Kashmir has been selected to represent India at the Qwan Ki Do World Championship (QKDWC) in Romania this May. The Class-7 student from Awantipora, Pulwama, is an emerging talent in the Vietnamese martial art.
Naeil has been trained in Gindoo Fighters Club, Awantipora. The young athlete earned his berth for the world championship following a commendable performance at the 7th Qwan Ki Do National Championship held in Jammu, where he secured one gold and one bronze medal.
His disciplined training routine and unwavering commitment have now opened the doors to international competition.
Expressing his joy and determination, Naeil said that representing India on a world platform is a matter of immense honour. “I will try my best to prove my spirit and make my country proud,” he said, adding that the journey to international participation is not without challenges.
He pointed out that the lack of sponsorship and financial support remains a major hurdle, as international events involve significant expenses related to travel, accommodation, and training. “If the government or any institution supports me, it will help me focus fully on my performance,” he added.
Naeil also highlighted the broader issues faced by young sportspersons in south Kashmir. “There is an inadequacy of sports infrastructure in south Kashmir particularly in Awantipora Tehsil.”
“Limited access to proper facilities, equipment, and exposure often discourages talented youngsters from pursuing sports professionally,” he said.
Coach of Naeil, Shah Faisal Ali praised his hard work.
He said, “Lack of support system holds back the talent of many locals of Kashmir.”
Ali urged the authorities to invest in grassroots sports to help buddying youth to succeed in the field of sports—(KNO)
