Satish Sharma: ₹71 Lakh released to boost sports infrastructure in Chanpora

In a major push for grassroots sports, the Jammu and Kashmir government has released ₹71.18 lakh for upgrading sports infrastructure in Chanpora constituency. Sports Minister Satish Sharma announced this in the Assembly, targeting playfields and facilities to nurture local talent. The funds precisely focus on the development and maintenance of playfields in Chanpora, Srinagar. This constituency-specific allocation addresses immediate needs like turf upgrades and equipment, fostering safer, accessible venues for youth amid rising sports interest. It aligns with youth empowerment drives, reducing idle time and promoting fitness in urban pockets.

Responding to a question raised by NC legislator Mushtaq Guroo, Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma informed the House that a volleyball court with fencing and drainage has been taken up at Nowgam at an allotted cost of ₹20 lakh, of which ₹11.459 lakh has been utilized so far. He said that ₹13.64 lakh has been sanctioned for chain-link fencing of the existing synthetic volleyball court and the ZPEO office, along with the construction of a main gate at Nowgam playfield, with ₹12.36 lakh already spent.

“The remaining funds are earmarked for the construction of the ZPEO office at Nowgam, Srinagar,” the Minister said.

Over five years, J&K has invested strategically in its sports infrastructure. Bakshi Stadium (Srinagar) and M.A. Stadium (Jammu) got major upgrades, and the UT has successfully hosted Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg five times. Earlier, Khelo India sanctioned ₹14.75 crore for synthetic hockey turfs at Polo Ground (Srinagar). Water sports academy at Nehru Park and fencing in Jammu expanded options, building international-standard facilities for rural-urban youth.

“In the last five years, international-standard facilities have been built, providing children in both urban and rural areas ample opportunities to pursue sports as a viable career,” LG Manoj Sinha said.

Khelo India shines with 100 Centres (81 functional), training 2,000 kids via professional coaches; special 5-per-district norm for J&K. Schemes like My Youth My Pride, Har Din Khel, and Rural Sports Melas target panchayats, aiding international events financially. Nasha Mukt Abhiyan integrates sports against drugs. These efforts create a vibrant ecosystem, eyeing the Olympics 2036 aspirations. This Chanpora grant exemplifies sustained commitment, turning sports into careers for J&K's youth.