Satish Sharma inaugurates YSS–JKSC Cricket League; hails Ranji Triumph, calls for statehood restoration

JAMMU : Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, IT, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, on friday inaugurated the YSS–JKSC Cricket League at the M.A. Stadium, Jammu.
The Minister formally inaugurated the tournament by unveiling the trophy and distributing team jerseys among the participating teams, signalling the commencement of the much-awaited cricket league which has drawn participation from 18 teams. The league is being organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council under the aegis of the Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K.
The matches of the tournament will be played under floodlights at M.A. Stadium, adding to the excitement for the spectators. All the games would also be live-streamed on YouTube, enabling the cricket enthusiasts from across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond to ent the tournament.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, senior officers of the Department of Youth Services and Sports, representatives of sports associations, renowned sportspersons and a large gathering of cricket lovers who thronged the stadium to witness the launch of the league.
Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma said that sports have the power to shape character, promote discipline and foster unity among youth. He said that the government is committed towards strengthening sports infrastructure and creating greater opportunities for young sportspersons across Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the YSS–JKSC Cricket League will serve as an important platform for young cricketers to showcase their talent and gain exposure, while also nurturing the vibrant sports culture emerging across the region.
The Minister also lauded the historic achievement of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team in winning the prestigious Ranji Trophy, describing it as a moment of immense pride and inspiration for the entire region.
“Jammu and Kashmir has immense sporting talent and the Ranji Trophy victory has proved that when provided with opportunities and the right platform, our youth can shine at the national level,” the Minister said.
Satish Sharma further reiterated the long-standing demand of the people for restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the aspirations and democratic rights of the people must be respected. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have always believed in democratic values and development. Restoration of statehood will further strengthen the governance, empower institutions and accelerate progress in the region,” he said.
The Minister also announced a series of major upcoming sporting events in Jammu, aimed at expanding the sports calendar and providing additional opportunities for athletes across disciplines. These included a Football Premier League at Mini Stadium Parade Ground, followed by a National-level Cyclothon and a Volleyball League, which are expected to witness participation from players across the region.
Expressing happiness over the enthusiastic participation of local players, the Minister said that the government is determined to promote grassroots sports and identify young talent from every corner of Jammu and Kashmir.
The YSS–JKSC Cricket League carries attractive prize money, with the winning team set to receive ₹3 lakh while the runner-up team will be awarded ₹1.5 lakh. Several individual awards will also be presented, including ₹20,000 for the Man of the Series along with other recognitions for outstanding performances.