The Jammu and Kashmir’s Administrative Council has approved the establishment of the “Jammu and Kashmir Sports Cadre” under the administrative jurisdiction of the Youth Services and Sports Department. Overall, 235 cadre posts, including 10 posts reserved for the appointment of exceptional sports individuals, will be created. This decision of the LG administration marks the initiation of the long-awaited process for the appointment of exceptional sportspeople, which had been mired in legal and procedural complications for several years. The creation of these sports cadre vacancies within the Youth Services and Sports Department is a significant step in recognising the efforts of exceptional sports individuals. In reality, there are limited career opportunities available for athletes, with only a few departments like Jammu and Kashmir Police, Jammu and Kashmir Bank Ltd., and a handful of others having their own sports teams for team-based games. Proper infrastructure and regular practice are essential for team sports, but these are often lacking. Even in individual sports, managing time effectively can be a challenge. Many athletes in Jammu and Kashmir have given up their sports activities due to the demands of their jobs.
Given these circumstances, the opportunity for 235 outstanding sports individuals to pursue their dreams is truly valuable. These individuals are well aware of the shortcomings in the sports infrastructure and system, and their involvement can bring about visible changes and improvements within the Sports Department. The department can seek their input and leverage their experience to effect meaningful transformations. Well-planned stadiums and sports facilities can become a reality when sportspeople are actively involved in decision-making. Jammu and Kashmir is teeming with sports talent, and many young athletes have already brought honour to the Union Territory. Every region has unique advantages that, if harnessed, can lead to a sports revolution in Jammu and Kashmir.
With this recruitment process becoming an annual tradition, it will serve as a motivating factor for aspiring athletes to pursue sports as a career. Initiatives like Khelo India have already provided a significant boost to sports, and the recruitment of sportspeople within Government Departments will be another major step forward. The Government’s support for these appointees is a strategic move that can potentially be a game-changer in the years to come, promoting sports as a viable and rewarding career path in Jammu and Kashmir.
Indeed, having sufficient funds available and sending the right signals through initiatives like the inclusion of outstanding sports individuals within the Government can work wonders for the sports scenario in Jammu and Kashmir. Adequate funding is crucial for developing sports infrastructure, providing training and coaching facilities, and supporting athletes in their endeavours. By combining financial resources with supportive policies and programmes, the Government can create a conducive environment for sports development in Jammu and Kashmir. This, in turn, can lead to the discovery and nurturing of more sporting talents, improved sports facilities, and ultimately greater success in sports at the regional, national, and international levels.
The Government’s commitment to building sports infrastructure in every district of the UT over the past couple of years has yielded impressive results. This renewed focus on sports has been taken to the next level by the Government. The success stories of young champions emerging from remote areas of Kashmir and Jammu are a testament to the abundant talent present in Jammu and Kashmir. With proper guidance and expert mentorship, these young talents can bring a series of laurels to the UT. The declared initiative not only provides these athletes with job security but also taps into their expertise to improve the sports infrastructure and system. It’s a promising decision, and the Government’s assurance of making it an annual occurrence is a noteworthy announcement in itself. This commitment will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the sports landscape of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming years.
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