Srinagar, July 18: In a significant development for the promotion of water-based adventure and competitive sports in the Union Territory, a high-level delegation comprising national medal-winning athletes, office bearers of water sports associations, and key stakeholders today met the Hon’ble Sports Minister of Jammu and Kashmir “Shri Satish Sharma Ji”. The meeting marked a pivotal moment for the future of rowing, sculling, kayaking, canoeing, and other water sports disciplines in the region.
The delegation was led by Dr. Burhan Bazaz, President of the J&K Rowing and Sculling Association, accompanied by other senior stakeholders including Dr. Imran Nazir, Mr. Hussain Khan, Mr. Latif Ahmad, and other distinguished members of the water sports community. The interaction was both warm and purposeful, driven by a shared vision to position Jammu & Kashmir as a national and international hub for water sports.
During the meeting, the delegation proudly highlighted that athletes from J&K have consistently brought home medals from prestigious national level water sports championships despite limited infrastructure and institutional support. Thanks to the unwavering coaching and mentorship of Ms. Bilquis Mir, a globally renowned international water sports athlete. Her contribution to the sport has been foundational, inspiring a generation of athletes.
The delegation emphasized that the region blessed with abundant natural water fronts such as Dal Lake, Wular Lake, Manasbal Lake , Ranjit Sagar, Mansar Lake among others, holds tremendous potential to host national and international championships, training camps, and water sports festivals. Such initiatives could not only generate sports excellence but also boost eco-tourism, local employment, and regional pride.
It was further highlighted that the youth residing in and around these water fronts possess an inherent natural paddling skills. With structured training programs, access to modern equipment, and regular competitive exposure, many of these young individuals could be groomed into world-class athletes. This vision aligns strongly with the goals of youth empowerment, employment generation, and sports-led development.
The athletes also candidly put forth certain grievances, including the lack of support from sports department , delayed access to training facilities, and insufficient financial support for grassroots athletes. The Hon’ble Minister, Shri Satish Sharma Ji gave a patient and attentive hearing to each concern. He assured the delegation that all genuine grievances would be redressed in a time-bound manner to ensure the holistic development of water sports in the Union Territory.
Moved by the achievements and sincerity of the athletes, the Minister instantly announced and gave out a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 for recent national-level medal winners and others, acknowledging their hard work, discipline, and commitment to the sport.
Notably, Mr. Zahid, one of the young water sports athletes, proudly shared during the meeting: “I am deeply inspired by Ms. Bilquis Mir. Her journey and guidance have motivated me to pursue excellence in this field. I consider myself fortunate to be mentored by her.”
Shri Sharma Ji also encouraged the associations to submit comprehensive proposals outlining future events, coaching schedules, and infrastructural needs. He reiterated the Ministry’s full support in positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a premier destination for water sports enthusiasts from across the country and the globe.
The meeting concluded on an optimistic and united note, with renewed enthusiasm and a shared commitment to elevate water sports in J&K to national and international standards—ensuring excellence, inclusivity, and recognition for the athletes and the region alike.
