Anantnag, June 13: In a major push to strengthen sports infrastructure and promote youth engagement, Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma on Saturday undertook an extensive tour of sports facilities across Anantnag district and announced a series of upgrades aimed at transforming the region’s sporting landscape.

The Minister, accompanied by MLA Anantnag West Abdul Majeed Bhat, District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO) Anantnag, and officials from Transport, Food Supplies, and Science & Technology departments, inspected sports stadiums, playgrounds, and allied facilities at Qazigund, Sadoora, Bumthan, Panzath, Monghall, Dialgam, Ruh, and Boin Dialgam.
During the visit, he reviewed the existing infrastructure, assessed its condition, and identified requirements for modernization and expansion. He also interacted with players, coaches, and local youth, appreciating their enthusiasm and sporting spirit. The Minister noted that Anantnag has emerged as a leading district in Jammu and Kashmir in terms of sports participation and talent development.
Emphasizing that sports infrastructure forms the backbone of athletic excellence, Satish Sharma announced comprehensive upgrades across the district. These include expansion and modernization of existing facilities, development of new playfields, improvement of training infrastructure, augmentation of spectator amenities, and installation of floodlights to enable evening sporting activities.
He said the proposed interventions would significantly enhance the quality of infrastructure and provide better opportunities for rural youth to train and compete at higher levels. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that sportspersons in remote areas have access to facilities comparable to national standards.
“Sports have the power to transform lives, build character and channelize youth energy into positive directions. Our aim is to create an environment where every athlete can realize their full potential,” he said.
Satish Sharma further stated that sports development has been prioritised under the current government, with focused efforts on grassroots infrastructure, early talent identification, and structured athlete development. He added that Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a sporting transformation driven by increasing youth participation across disciplines.
He directed officials to prepare detailed project reports for upgradation works and ensure timely execution. He also stressed proper maintenance and optimal use of existing infrastructure to keep facilities accessible to youth throughout the year.
Highlighting the broader role of sports in promoting discipline, fitness, and social harmony, the Minister said the department will continue to work in close coordination with public representatives, sports bodies, and local communities to build a vibrant sporting ecosystem across the Union Territory.
During the visit, the Minister also met several public delegations from the district who raised issues related to sports infrastructure, transport, public distribution, and youth welfare. He assured them that all genuine concerns would be addressed in a time-bound manner, reaffirming the government’s commitment to responsive and people-centric governance.