Jammu and Kashmir, a region cherished by our Hon’ble Prime Minister, shone brightly in his Mann Ki Baat address, where he celebrated its sporting milestones amidst recent flood challenges. These achievements, shared with pride, highlight the transformative role of sports in a region close to his heart, fostering unity and hope.
In Pulwama, once scarred by unrest, a historic day-night cricket match under the ‘Royal Premier League’ drew thousands, particularly youth, whose enthusiasm lit up the stadium. This once-unimaginable event marks a new era for Jammu and Kashmir. The PM’s focus on this spectacle reflects his vision of a vibrant, inclusive region where cricket, a national unifier, empowers young aspirations. The image of Pulwama’s youth cheering under floodlights embodies a narrative of progress, deeply aligned with the PM’s dreams for the region.
Similarly, the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival at Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake, a venue dear to the PM for its cultural and scenic charm, showcased over 800 athletes from across India. With near-equal participation from women, the event highlighted Kashmir’s potential as a sports tourism hub. Madhya Pradesh led the medal tally, followed by Haryana and Odisha, reflecting a spirit of competition and unity. The PM’s special mention of athletes like Rashmita Sahu from Odisha and Mohsin Ali from Srinagar underscores his personal commitment to nurturing the region’s talent.
The hospitality of Jammu and Kashmir’s people and government, praised by the PM, made these events unforgettable. His emphasis on these milestones in *Mann Ki Baat* reveals his deep dedication to the region’s progress. These sporting triumphs are more than events; they are beacons of resilience and unity, aligning with the PM’s vision of a transformed Jammu and Kashmir, where sports inspire a brighter, inclusive future for the nation.
