Srinagar : The Department of Youth Services & Sports carried out a comprehensive Union Territory-level review of sports infrastructure, youth engagement programmes and district action plans for 2026–27, while laying down a time-bound and outcome-oriented roadmap for expanding sports access and strengthening youth development initiatives across Jammu & Kashmir.
The review meeting, chaired by Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner Secretary of Youth Services & Sports, focused on enhancing the sports ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir. Attended by senior officials and newly appointed District Youth Services & Sports Officers, the meeting aimed to establish a structured monitoring and planning framework that emphasizes participation, infrastructure utilization, inclusion, and execution efficiency. A comprehensive review of 521 projects, with an investment exceeding ₹644 crore, was conducted. This portfolio includes 344 ongoing projects costing approximately ₹396.72 crore and 177 new initiatives proposed under the Action Plan for 2026–27, estimated at ₹247.34 crore. The meeting scrutinized district-wise progress, expenditure patterns, project timelines, and implementation challenges, urging districts to focus on measurable outcomes related to participation and infrastructure usage rather than solely on construction. Dr. Choudhary highlighted the importance of creating a participatory sports ecosystem involving schools, local communities, and youth institutions in talent identification and sustaining sports activities. He emphasized that sports infrastructure should serve as community assets that foster discipline, fitness, leadership, and youth engagement. To enhance project completion rates, the Commissioner Secretary instructed districts to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and improve coordination with local administrations. A clear timeline for project implementation was established, requiring land identification within 30 days, technical sanctions within 45 days, and administrative approvals and tendering within 60 days. The Department is currently developing infrastructure across 16 sports categories, with a significant focus on multi-purpose playfields and volleyball facilities to promote accessible sports for youth. The meeting also reviewed major initiatives such as Khel Gaons, Khel Bhawans, Border Sports Academies, and various training facilities, particularly emphasizing projects aimed at improving sports access in border, tribal, and remote areas. The need for better utilization of existing infrastructure, regular sporting calendars, coaching support, and district-level talent mapping was underscored. Dr. Choudhary commended districts like Shopian, Anantnag, Budgam, and Kulgam for their effective implementation and urged those with lower expenditure to enhance monitoring and expedite pending projects. Discussions also included institutional strengthening measures, such as efficient cadre management and capacity building for departmental staff. It was decided that district-level review meetings would be held regularly across Jammu & Kashmir to monitor progress, address bottlenecks, and ensure that youth and sports initiatives yield tangible results.
