Anantnag Emerges as Kashmir’s Next Sports Growth Hub

From being the seat of the Amarnath yatra to being the source of the Jhelum, the land of many springs, Anantnag is known for its mesmerizing beauty and spiritual significance. After successfully conducting the 6th Khelo India Winter Games in its majestic Gulmarg backdrop, Kashmir now turns towards its southern region of Anantnag for sports-led development.

District development commissioner Dr. Bilal Mohiud Din Bhat carried out a detailed inspection and review of the infrastructural status in the district headquarters.Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Tehsildar Anantnag, and various other senior officers also accompanied the commissioner.

The team reviewed the status of the indoor stadium at Bangidar currently being developed by the Anantnag municipal council with the execution duties given to the R&B department. Notable damage was seen at the stadium due to the recent flooding incidents, which had stalled the project completion further.

On a prompt note, the DDA Commissioner summoned the MCA secretary to compile estimates of the requisite funds for the repair work as well as the project completion. The commissioner also took the opportunity to address the vision of the authority in building modernized sports infrastructure to promote accessibility to quality infrastructure at the grassroots level.

With sanctions worth ₹155 crore in the latest budget, 2026-27 for the youth and sports affairs sector, CM Omar Abdullah had highlighted the government's intent in revamping Kashmir's sports ecosystem. A digital athlete portal for tracking their achievements and certifications and providing performance dashboards was also announced in the budget.