J&K emerging as hub of big sporting events: PM Modi

SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir is fast emerging as a hub for major sporting events and a nursery of young talent, as he hailed the union territory’s maiden Ranji Trophy triumph as a historic achievement.
In the 132nd episode of his monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) described India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as a moment of national pride while making special mention of the cricketing milestone achieved by Jammu and Kashmir.
The Prime Minister stated that the JK cricket team created history by securing its first-ever Ranji Trophy title in the final held in Karnataka, ending a nearly seven-decade-long wait.
He singled out young pacer Aaqib Nabi for his exceptional performance, highlighting that the fast bowler’s 60-wicket haul in the season had earned widespread acclaim.
The landmark victory has generated immense enthusiasm not only among players and support staff but across the union territory, PM Modi said.
Prime Minister pointed to growing youth participation in multiple disciplines. He noted that the Khelo India Winter Games have positioned Gulmarg as a prominent winter sports destination, while sports like football are gaining increasing popularity among youngsters, signalling a positive shift towards fitness and competitive sports, he added. (KNS)