Satish Sharma visits Pampore, takes first-hand assessment of facilities available at key sports grounds

SRINAGAR : Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, and Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma on thursday conducted an extensive visit to two key sports grounds at Tanchabagh and Kadalbal, Pampore to gather first-hand assessment of the sports facilities available and review requirements for their upgradation.
During the visit, the Minister interacted with local youth, sportspersons, and representatives of sports bodies who apprised him of various issues related to sports infrastructure, availability of equipment, and organization of regular sports activities in the area.
Responding to the demands and suggestions put forth by the locals and Sports persons, Satish Sharma announced that both Tanchabagh and Kadalbal grounds will soon be equipped with mass floodlights to enable day and night matches, along with the construction of modern washrooms, changing rooms, and players rest areas. He assured that the Youth Services & Sports department will provide all necessary assistance to ensure these facilities are developed in a time-bound manner.
The Minister emphasized that the Government is fully committed to strengthen sports infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir and particular focus is being laid on developing playgrounds at grassroots level to provide a platform for talented youth to showcase their abilities.
He further stated that sports not only promote physical fitness but also instil discipline, teamwork, and leadership among youth, adding that such facilities will contribute significantly to community engagement and social harmony.
The Minister was accompanied by MLA Pampore, Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi and senior officers from the District Administration and Department of Youth Services and Sports, who briefed the Minister about the current status of sports infrastructure and ongoing initiatives in the area.
Later, the Minister witnessed the final match of a local cricket tournament organized at the Pampore Ground, where he appreciated the enthusiasm and sportsmanship displayed by the players. He also distributed prizes among the winning and runner-up teams, lauding the organizers for their efforts in promoting sports activities among the youth.
The Minister reiterated that the Government under the leadership Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah is working on a comprehensive roadmap to uplift sports infrastructure, empower young talent, and ensure that every district has adequate facilities for training and competition.