Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today asserted that the government is committed to boost sports infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, with emphasis on providing quality facilities to youth in far-flung and border areas.
The Deputy Chief Minister was speaking after inaugurating the ASMITA Khelo India Women’s League – North Zone Kickboxing Tournament 2026 at the Gymnasium Hall, University of Jammu.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, the Deputy Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to the women athletes and officials from all North Zone States and Union Territories, terming the event a significant step towards promotion of sports and women empowerment in J&K.
“The present government is focused on ensuring equitable development and providing essential facilities, including sports infrastructure, in villages across far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir. This will empower our rural youth to showcase and further hone their sporting talent,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister lauded the ASMITA initiative for creating meaningful opportunities for women athletes and for strengthening sports at the grassroots level.
“It is encouraging to see our young boys and girls participating in sports with such energy and commitment. This gives us confidence that the future of our country is in safe and capable hands,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.
The Deputy Chief Minister observed that J&K harbours national unity, peace and stability as of paramount importance. He emphasised the need for collective strength to ensure a peaceful and resilient nation.
Describing J&K as a land of natural beauty, cultural richness and harmony, he welcomed the visiting teams and delegates to experience its warmth and hospitality. He reiterated the government’s commitment towards peace, development and inclusive progress in J&K.
Expressing happiness over the participation of distinguished guests and delegates from across the country, he said that their presence reflected goodwill and encouragement. He added that such sports events stand as a strong testament to government’s resolve to nurture women athletes and strengthen the overall sports ecosystem in the region.
The tournament is witnessing participation of around 600 women athletes and 100 officials representing nine States and Union Territories of the North Zone, making it one of the largest women’s kickboxing events in the region.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Santosh Agrawal, President, WAKO India Kickboxing Federation; Sanjay Yadav, Senior Vice President, WAKO India Kickboxing Federation and Gaurav Chopra, Vice President, Kickboxing Association of Jammu & Kashmir.
Dawood Iqbal Baba, Director Sports, University of Jammu, presented the vote of thanks.
The prestigious national level women’s kickboxing championship is being organised by the Kickboxing Association of Jammu & Kashmir (KAJK) under the aegis of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Khelo India.
Earlier, the opening ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Abhishek Jain, General Secretary, Kickboxing Association of Jammu & Kashmir.
