The youth of Jammu and Kashmir stand at a unique crossroads, where the pursuit of aspirations meets the reality of challenges. In recent years, the region has witnessed a paradoxical rise in two contrasting phenomena – an unprecedented surge in sports participation and a simultaneous escalation in drug addiction. These trends not only reflect the shifting priorities of a generation but also underscore the socio-economic realities of a region grappling with unemployment, insecurity and a history of conflict.
Resurgence of Sporting Activities
Jammu and Kashmir has seen a remarkable transformation in the sports landscape over the past decade. Sports like Cricket, Football, Volleyball, Martial Arts and Kabbadi have not only gained popularity but have also become viable career paths for many young athletes. The region’s youth, once hesitant to step onto the field due to socio-political uncertainties and fear factors are now competing on national and international stages, bringing laurels to Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country.
Proactive Role of Government
The government’s proactive measures have been instrumental in this resurgence. According to the budget document for 2024-25, the capital expenditure for the sports sector in J&K was increased from Rs, 110 crores in 2023-24 to Rs 141.80 crore, reflecting a 30% hike. This significant investment has led to the development of new sports infrastructure, better training facilities and organized tournaments in both urban and rural areas.
The government’s proactive measures have been instrumental in this resurgence
Vital Role of Indian Army
The efforts to popularize sports in J&K can be traced back to initiatives by the Indian Army, which began organizing sporting events in 2010. Despite facing criticism from separatist groups who accused the army of diverting youth attention from the “Kashmir issue” to these events laid the foundation for today’s sports revolution.
Post-2019, with the abrogation of Article 370 and the resultant decline in militancy, the fear factor that once restrained youth participation has largely dissipated. This has allowed for a spontaneous and widespread embrace for sports, with hundreds of tournaments being held in every corner of the Union Territory.
Wushu, Taekwondo and Archery have also emerged as areas where young athletes from J&K are excelling, earning recognition on international platforms.
The impact of this transformation is visible in diverse success stories from Kashmir. A growing number of cricketers are making their mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic circuits. Wushu, Taekwondo and Archery have also emerged as areas where young athletes from J&K are excelling, earning recognition on international platforms.
Role of the Indian Army in Promoting Sports
The Indian Army has played a pivotal role in steering the youth of Jammu and Kashmir away from violence and towards constructive pursuits like Sports. Recognizing the transformative potential of sports, the Army initiated several projects and programs designed to engage young minds, foster a spirit of teamwork and offer a positive alternative to the turbulent realities of conflict. These initiatives, which began in earnest after 2010, have left an indelible mark on the region’s sporting landscape.
The Army’s relentless efforts have not only produced success stories but also instilled hope and ambition among the youth.
Sadbhavana Initiatives
Among the notable initiatives is the Sadbhavana program under which the Army has organized numerous sports tournaments, coaching camps and talent hunts across the Union Territory. For instance, the Army Goodwill Schools regularly host inter-school competitions in football, volleyball and cricket, encouraging participation from rural and remote areas. These events not only promote sports but also help bridge the gap between the security forces and the local populace.
Chinar Youth Engagement Program
Another significant initiative is the Chinar Youth Engagement Program, which has been instrumental in fostering talent in Martial arts and adventure sports like paragliding. The Army has also collaborated with local and national sports bodies to provide advanced training and exposure to talented athletes from J&K.
Push Given by Khelo India
In addition, projects like the Khelo India initiative in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports have further expanded the reach of these programs. The Army’s relentless efforts have not only produced success stories but also instilled hope and ambition among the youth, proving that sports can indeed be a powerful antidote to despair and a stepping stone to a brighter future.
Projects like the Khelo India initiative in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports have further expanded the reach of these programs
Role of Private Initiatives in Promoting Sports
In addition to government and Army-led efforts, private individuals and organizations in Jammu and Kashmir have emerged as key contributors to the region’s growing sports culture.
Private organizers have also turned their attention to sports like football, kabaddi and volleyball, reviving traditional games while introducing new opportunities.
These grassroots initiatives, often driven by passion and community support, have created opportunities for youth to showcase their talent and pursue sports as a viable career option. Across the Union Territory, private tournaments and leagues have gained immense popularity, drawing spectators and participants alike and giving rise to a vibrant sporting ecosystem.
Wular Premier League
One of the most prominent examples is the Wular Premier League (WPL), which has become a flagship event in the region’s cricket calendar. Held annually, the league attracts teams from various districts and provides young cricketers with a platform to hone their skills under competitive conditions. Similarly, the Kashmir Premier League (KPL) has garnered a significant following, with its emphasis on nurturing local talent and promoting cricket as a professional sport. These leagues not only spotlight emerging players but also instill a sense of pride and unity within communities.
Mushrooming Growth of Sports Activities
Several other cricket leagues, such as the Pahalgam Cricket League, Bijbehara Cricket League, Harud Cricket Cup and Wular Cricket League, have also gained traction, offering platforms for youth from rural and urban areas alike. The Winter Cup and Big Bash Cup, along with initiatives like the Chinar Cricket League and various editions of the RPL and WPL, add to the rich tapestry of cricketing events that keep the sports calendar buzzing throughout the year irrespective of climatic adversaries.
These tournaments are not limited to cricket alone. Private organizers have also turned their attention to sports like football, kabaddi and volleyball, reviving traditional games while introducing new opportunities. For instance, football tournaments have seen a significant resurgence, with local clubs and private sponsors stepping in to organize events in areas like Sopore, Baramulla, Anantnag and Srinagar. Kabaddi, which had almost faded into oblivion, has been rejuvenated through privately organized leagues that aim to preserve the cultural heritage of the region while offering youth an alternative to negative influences.
Role Of JKCA
The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has also played a critical role in supporting private efforts by providing infrastructure and technical assistance to budding players. Many of these leagues are organized in collaboration with JKCA, ensuring that talent is identified and nurtured at the grassroots level.
These private tournaments are more than just sporting events; they are celebrations of resilience and ambition in a region that has long grappled with challenges. By investing their time, resources and energy, private individuals and organizations have created a robust ecosystem where youth can channel their energies constructively, develop their skills and dream of professional careers. These leagues, with their community-centric approach, have not only uncovered hidden talents but also fostered a culture of hope and aspiration in Jammu and Kashmir.
Sports Mania
Red Premier League Final Postponed to Accommodate Fans
The Khyber Red Premier League final, an electrifying showdown between Royal Goodwill Cricket Club and Hamdan Hurricanes Cricket Club, played in October this year was postponed to the next day in the middle of the game only to accommodate the overwhelming enthusiasm of cricket fans.
The Red Premier League in Kashmir ignited a fire of passion and enthusiasm among the youth and people of Jammu and Kashmir, transcending the boundaries of cricket and becoming a symbol of collective aspiration. The sheer magnitude of support was witnessed during the league’s final match, where an overwhelming surge of spectators brought the game to an unprecedented halt.
The fervour was so electrifying that the match had to be rescheduled the next day without spectators, a testament to the league’s magnetic pull. This spectacle underscores the deep-seated love for sports in the region, reflecting a transformative spirit among the youth who see such events not just as entertainment but as a platform for unity and aspiration.
Shining Stars of Kashmir
A Journey of Excellence in Sports
In a remarkable stride for Kashmir’s sporting legacy, young talents from the valley have etched their names in history across diverse sports. These athletes have not only brought laurels to the region but also broken barriers and inspired countless others.
Cricketing Sensations
Eighteen-year-old Sadiya Wani from Srinagar has taken the cricketing world by storm, earning a place in the ICC Indian senior women’s team after showcasing her prowess in under-19 and under-23 formats. Recently inducted into the National Cricket Academy, Sadiya continues her rigorous training to shine brighter on the international stage.
Jasia Akhtar from Shopian became the first woman cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to join the Indian Premier League. Representing Delhi Capitals, Jasia was bought for an impressive Rs 20 lakhs, symbolizing her meteoric rise.
Making Waves on Dal Lake
In a historic event, over 150 women competed in the first-ever women’s boat race on Dal Lake, organized by Bilquis Mir, India’s first Olympic judge in sports. Mir hailed the event as a groundbreaking moment for women’s sports in the region. Out of these, 35 talented girls were selected for advanced training, opening doors for future national and international water sports competitions.
Football Triumphs
Kashmir’s footballers shone brightly in 2023. Abdul Salha from Anantnag bagged gold in the SAFF Under-16 Championship in Bhutan, Suhail Ahmad clinched gold in the Asian Football Championship U-23 in China while Sahil Khursheed and Jehangir Shagoo secured gold medals in the SAFF U-19 Championships held in Nepal. Notably, Ishfaq Ahmad and Majid Yousuf played pivotal roles as Head Coach and Manager, respectively, for the victorious Indian U-16 team.
Trailblazers in Martial Arts and Judo
Athletes like Kaifa Shah and Aliza Shah brought home gold in Wushu in U-19 and U-17 categories, respectively. Judo stars Mohammad Hadi, Nazia Fatima and Syed Azaan clinched silver and bronze medals, demonstrating their mettle in national competitions.
Weightlifting Glory
Young and promising weightlifter Syed Atsham Indrabi claimed a gold medal at the 68th School Nationals in Delhi in the 67kg category. His achievement highlights the role of rigorous training at Bakshi Stadium and the support of the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council in nurturing local talent.
Winter Sports Achievements
Aadil Manzoor Peer, also known as Syed Aadi, has consistently excelled in ice stock sports, securing multiple gold medals in the Khelo India National Winter Games and the National Ice Stock Sport Championships. Aadi, the captain of the Indian National Ice Stock Team, remains a beacon of inspiration for winter sports enthusiasts.
Taekwondo Brilliance
Afreen Hyder recently earned a silver medal at the prestigious China Open International Taekwondo Championship, competing against elite athletes from across the globe. Her determination and skill have firmly established her as one of the region’s finest in the sport.
Olympic Dreams on Ice
Though Mohammad Arif Khan’s Olympic journey ended unexpectedly in the 2022 Winter Olympics slalom race, his qualification as India’s sole representative in alpine skiing was a moment of immense pride for Kashmir and the nation.
Army Livens Up Doda, Poonch with Sports Tourneys
The Indian Army has been instrumental in promoting sports and fostering community unity in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir through two major cricket tournaments.
The inaugural season of the Krishna Ghati Premier League (KGPL) 2024-2025, organized by the Nangi Tekri battalion of the Krishna Ghati brigade, featured 32 teams from Poonch, Surankote and Rajouri, competing for a cash prize pool of Rs. 8 lakhs. The league, culminating on Vijay Diwas, December 16, integrated the spirit of heroism and national pride with the shared love for cricket.
Simultaneously, the Brigadier Usman SPPR Inter-District/Tehsil Cricket Tournament, held in Nowshera, Rajouri district from December 9 to 17, brought together teams from Rajouri, Nowshera, Akhnoor, Poonch, Doda, Udhampur and Sunderbani to play for a Rs 20 lakh prize. Through these initiatives, the Army not only nurtures young talent from remote border areas but also strengthens communal bonds, showcasing its commitment to the holistic development of the region.
The Dark Shadow of Drug Addiction
Amid this inspiring rise in sports, an equally troubling trend has emerged, the increasing prevalence of drug addiction among J&K’s youth.
Parliamentary reports reveal that since 2021, over 6,500 cases have been registered and 9,424 individuals have been arrested under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. In the past five years, nearly 8,000 kilograms of narcotics, including 830 kilograms of hashish, 272 kilograms of heroin and 6,722 kilograms of poppy straw, have been seized and destroyed.
Unemployment, Lack of Awareness
These figures are a stark reminder of the scale of the drug problem in the region. J&K’s geographic proximity to international borders, particularly with Pakistan and Afghanistan, major producers of opiates, makes it highly vulnerable to cross-border drug trafficking.
The porous borders and the region’s challenging socio-economic conditions, including unemployment and lack of awareness have exacerbated the problem.
A detailed report from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment highlights the increasing prevalence of drug abuse among the youth, with alarming rates of addiction to substances such as heroin, cannabis and synthetic drugs. According to the report, J&K has one of the highest per capita drug consumption rates in India, a statistic that underscores the gravity of the situation.
Human Cost of Drugs Crisis
The human cost of this crisis is devastating. Families are being torn apart and communities are grappling with the health, social and economic implications of substance abuse. While law enforcement agencies have made commendable efforts to combat drug trafficking, including the destruction of large quantities of narcotics, the problem demands a comprehensive and sustained approach.
J&K has one of the highest per capita drug consumption rates in India, a statistic that underscores the gravity of the situation
Sports Triumph, Drugs Abuse
A Generation Divided
The dual trends of rising sports participation and increasing drug addiction represent two diverging paths for J&K’s youth.
On one hand, sports offer a constructive outlet for energy, a platform for self-expression and a pathway to success. On the other, drugs offer a temporary escape from the harsh realities of life but ultimately lead to devastation and despair.
This divide is not merely a reflection of individual choices but also of systemic challenges. The high unemployment rate in J&K is a significant factor driving both trends. With limited job opportunities, many young people are channeling their energy into sports, turning passion into profession. At the same time, the lack of economic stability and social support has made others vulnerable to the lure of drugs.
The Way Forward
J&K Needs Multi-Faceted Strategy
To address this paradox and ensure a brighter future for its youth, J&K needs a multi-faceted strategy:
- Strengthening Sports Ecosystem: The government’s increased investment in sports is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to ensure inclusivity and accessibility. Rural areas, in particular, require better facilities and training programs.
- Tackling Drug Addiction: Beyond law enforcement, the fight against drugs must include awareness campaigns, rehabilitation centers and community involvement. Schools, colleges, Civil Society and Religious Luminaries should integrate programs that educate students about the dangers of substance abuse.
- Creating Employment Opportunities: Addressing unemployment is critical to reducing both drug addiction and over-reliance on sports as a sole career option. Skill development programs, start-up incentives and job creation initiatives can provide young people with viable alternatives.
- Promoting Success Stories: Role models like Sheetal Devi, Sadia Mir and other athletes should be celebrated and their stories widely shared to inspire more youth to pursue sports and constructive activities.
The youth of Jammu and Kashmir represent the region’s greatest hope and its most pressing challenge. The rise in sports participation and the simultaneous increase in drug addiction are two sides of the same coin, reflecting the aspirations and anxieties of a generation.
The choice is clear: by investing in sports, creating economic opportunities and addressing the root causes of drug abuse, J&K can steer its youth towards a brighter future. This is not just a battle for the present but a fight for the soul of a generation that holds the promise of transformation and progress.