Calls it symbol of new confidence; says sports, culture and youth energy shaping J&K’s future
BuzzBytes Desk | New Delhi | Mar 29
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday placed Jammu and Kashmir at the centre of his national address, praising its historic sporting achievements, rising youth participation and cultural contributions as signs of a transforming and confident Union Territory.
Speaking in his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister highlighted the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team’s landmark victory in the Ranji Trophy, calling it a moment of immense pride that ended a wait of nearly seven decades. He said the achievement reflects years of dedication, discipline and perseverance by the players and the support system behind them.
Modi lauded captain Paras Dogra for his leadership and composure, saying his role was crucial in guiding the team to victory. He also singled out young Kashmiri bowler Aaqib Nabi, whose outstanding performance—taking 60 wickets in the tournament—has been widely appreciated across the country. The Prime Minister said such performances have not only brought recognition to the players but have also inspired a new generation of youth in Jammu and Kashmir to pursue sports seriously.
Describing the victory as a turning point, Modi said it has ignited enthusiasm among the youth and strengthened the sporting culture in the region. He noted that Jammu and Kashmir has a deep-rooted passion for sports and is now steadily emerging as a major hub for national and international sporting events.
Referring to infrastructure and events, the Prime Minister said that Gulmarg has already established itself as a premier destination by hosting the Khelo India Winter Games, while sports like football continue to gain popularity among young people across the Union Territory. He expressed confidence that this growing sporting ecosystem will open new opportunities and help channel the energy of youth in a positive direction.
The Prime Minister said the success of J&K’s sportspersons goes beyond the field, as it reflects resilience, determination and a spirit of excellence among the youth. He added that such achievements will inspire many young people not only to take up sports but also to strive for excellence in other areas of life.
In addition to sports, Modi also highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s contribution to preserving India’s cultural and intellectual heritage. He mentioned that valuable manuscripts from institutions such as Hemis Monastery in Ladakh have been shared under the Gyan Bharatam Survey, an initiative aimed at documenting the country’s rich manuscript traditions.
He said such efforts reflect the deep cultural roots of the region and its role in enriching India’s civilisational legacy. The Prime Minister urged citizens to actively participate in such initiatives and help uncover and preserve historical treasures.
Placing the developments in a broader national context, Modi said that India’s strength lies in its youth and their participation in nation-building. He said the growing involvement of young people in Jammu and Kashmir—whether in sports, culture or innovation—is a positive sign of change and progress.
The Prime Minister also linked these achievements to a larger transformation underway in the country, saying that India is witnessing a surge in youth-driven energy across sectors, and Jammu and Kashmir is becoming an important part of this journey.
Concluding his remarks on the Union Territory, Modi expressed optimism that the momentum created by recent successes will continue, and that Jammu and Kashmir will emerge as a leading centre of talent, sports excellence and cultural pride in the years to come.
He said the achievements of J&K’s youth not only bring pride to the region but also strengthen the spirit of the nation, adding that such stories of determination and success are shaping a new narrative of hope and progress.
