In the realm of sports and athletic pursuits, J&K’s sports enthusiasts are realizing their full potential, engaging in national and international events without the disruptions that once clouded the pre-2019 era with fear and uncertainty.
We all understand that peace is the cornerstone of progress and development in any society. Without peace, initiatives like establishing businesses, and schools, or developing infrastructure become challenging, if not impossible. Consider the current Israel-Palestine conflict—amidst the ongoing tensions, it’s difficult to envision any substantial steps towards progress or growth. Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has experienced a transformative phase of peace following the abrogation of Article 370 on 5th August 2019. This historic decision paved the way for new opportunities and avenues, particularly in the realm of sports. In this article, I aim to highlight how sports enthusiasts in J&K have embraced this newfound peace, excelling in their respective fields and leaving a mark in the world of sports since 2019.
The transformation in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) since 2019 has turned dreams into reality for its residents. From the improved road connectivity, burgeoning businesses, foreign investments, and a soaring influx of tourists, the region is experiencing a profound era of development, largely attributable to the prevailing peace. In the realm of sports and athletic pursuits, J&K’s sports enthusiasts are realizing their full potential, engaging in national and international events without the disruptions that once clouded the pre-2019 era with fear and uncertainty. One unforgettable figure is Tajamul Islam, a kickboxing prodigy hailing from Bandipora, who made headlines by clinching the sub-junior World Kickboxing Championship in Italy at the age of 7 in 2016, becoming the youngest kickboxing champion in the world. I vividly recall her interviews on national media and the challenges she and her family faced amidst the trolls and threats in 2016. Today, J&K boasts a multitude of rising stars akin to Tajamul Islam, undeterred by fear and achieving remarkable success in various national and international competitions. The most profound achievement for sports enthusiasts post-2019 is the burial of fear, paving the way for unprecedented growth and accomplishments in the sporting arena.
The sports arena in Jammu and Kashmir continues to witness extraordinary milestones post-2019 peace, with three outstanding fencers set to represent India at the upcoming Junior and Cadet Fencing World Championship, scheduled from April 12 to 20 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This prestigious event will feature the remarkable talents of Shreya Gupta, Sufiyan Waheed Sohil, and Chhavvi Sharma, all hailing from J&K.
The selection of these three fencers for such a prestigious international competition underscores their exceptional performances in the 2023-24 Cadet and Junior National Fencing competitions. Their prowess and dedication have earned them the honour of representing the nation on a global stage, showcasing the depth of talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir’s sports community. Shreya Gupta, already celebrated as the reigning junior and senior national champion in sabre fencing, continues to shine as she gears up for the world championship. Sufiyan Waheed Sohil ranked seventh nationally in epee fencing and a junior team medallist, exemplifies the rising talent and determination within the fencing discipline. Chavvi Sharma, the individual Bronze medallist at the cadet nationals, brings her skill and tenacity to this international platform.
This significant achievement not only reflects the personal dedication and hard work of these athletes but also highlights the supportive ecosystem and training infrastructure fostered in J&K post-2019. The efforts of coaches, mentors, and sports authorities in nurturing and promoting sporting talent in the region have undoubtedly contributed to this success. As these fencers embark on their journey to Riyadh, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their state and country. Their participation in the Junior and Cadet Fencing World Championship is a testament to the transformative impact of peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir, empowering athletes to pursue their dreams without hindrance. Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, Nuzat Gul, extended heartfelt congratulations to Shreya, Sufiyan, and Chavvi for their remarkable achievement and wished them the best of luck in the upcoming championship. This momentous occasion further cements J&K’s rising stature in the realm of sports and underscores the limitless potential of its athletes on the global stage. Moreover, Jammu and Kashmir have achieved a significant milestone with three talented players earning spots in India’s national volleyball camps. Saqlain Tariq, hailing from Poonch, has been selected for the senior team, while Kartik Sharma from Rajouri has secured a place in the under-20 category. Additionally, Mahir Wani from Srinagar has been chosen for the under-18 group. This achievement highlights the growing prowess of young athletes from diverse regions within J&K on the national stage.
Even in times of unrest in Kashmir, the Indian Army has played a crucial role in fostering a spirit of positivity and motivation among the youth through sports initiatives. Despite challenges, the Army has organized tournaments offering substantial prizes, encouraging young athletes to showcase their talents and pursue their sporting dreams. Beyond just organizing events, the Indian Army has actively sponsored promising players across various sports disciplines such as cricket, football, volleyball, wushu, and taekwondo. This support not only cultivates sporting talent but also instils a sense of discipline, teamwork, and resilience among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The involvement of the Indian Army in promoting sports not only provides opportunities for young athletes but also serves as a bridge between communities, fostering camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose. By channelling energies into sports, the Army contributes to the holistic development of individuals, nurturing future leaders who embody the values of dedication, sportsmanship, and unity. This collaborative effort between the youth of J&K and the Indian Army exemplifies the transformative power of sports in promoting peace, stability, and progress in the region.
As I keep saying and emphasizing on my social platforms peace is the catalyst for diverse developments, as evidenced by the recent achievements in sports in Jammu and Kashmir. This progress is made possible by the absence of mental and psychological pressures on students from the region, with the elimination of disruptive Hartaal culture. With everything running smoothly, children are motivated to excel in sports without fear of their families being threatened or trolled. J&K is experiencing a transformative sense of peace, development, and progress, where everyone can live without fear and with dignity.
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