February: In a significant boost to football development in Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of instructors from the KNVB Dutch Football Association met with the Secretary, J&K Sports Council, to discuss ongoing and future initiatives aimed at strengthening the sport in the region.
The discussions focused on a strategic roadmap covering short-, mid- and long-term goals, with a particular emphasis on women’s football, coach and referee education, youth exchange programs, and expanding the game in rural, tribal, and border areas.
Given football’s global appeal and its growing popularity in India, the meeting also addressed grassroots development to nurture young talent.
The possibility of formalizing collaborations through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was explored to further enhance football infrastructure and training programs in the region. The initiative is being coordinated by Roger, Raymond, Pinho Dsouza and Deepak Khanlokar from Acosa Sports Infrastructure, Mumbai.
J&K Sports Council in collaboration with KNVB Dutch Football Association organised a five day Refresher football coaching course from 1st February 2025 at Mini Stadium Parade with 35 local coaches getting the opportunity to participate in the KNVB World Coaches Program.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir’s female weightlifters showcased their dominance at the Asmita Khelo India National Weightlifting Championship held in Berhampur, Odisha held from January 8 to 14, 2025.
Three athletes from J&K delivered stellar performances. Sharon James clinched gold in the 87+ kg senior category, Akam Kour secured silver in the 87 kg junior category, while Kaushiki Sharma earned bronze in the 81+ kg youth category.
Their remarkable achievements are a testament to their dedication and the rigorous training provided at the Khelo India Centre.
Congratulating the athletes, Secretary, J&K Sports Council Nuzhat Gul lauded their success and highlighted the growing participation of women in sports. “Women athletes from J&K are excelling at domestic, national, and international levels, and their achievements inspire the next generation to pursue sports professionally,” she said.
