NEW DELHI: Concerned over repeated display of ISIS and Pakistani flags in the Kashmir Valley, the Centre has prepared a Rs 100-crore project to keep the youth of Jammu and Kashmir away from radical elements by attracting them towards sports.
Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today submit a detailed project to Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who had directed the Sports Ministry to prepare a comprehensive plan to engage the Kashmiri youth in sporting activities about a fortnight ago.
“The main focus of the project is to promote local sports and sporting talents. Cricket, football and water sports are the three areas where people of Kashmir are more interested and the project emphasises that,” sources privy to the initiative told reporters.
Both short-term and medium-term sports initiatives are part of the project.
The Sports Ministry is emphasising on starting Jammu and Kashmir franchise of Indian Premier League (cricket) and Indian Super League (football).
It has also suggested organising tournaments of different water sports in the Kashmir Valley.
“Sports is a good way to motivate the youths positively and keep away them from radical elements. In the first budget of the NDA Government, Rs 200 crore was allocated to Jammu and Kashmir for promotion of various sports activities. The Rs 100 crore project is in addition to that amount,” the sources said.
As per the plan, the Sports Ministry will upgrade different stadia and training facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. It will also organise talent hunts and competitions in the State to sport local talents. (AGENCIES)
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