SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a significant increase in sports participation and performance, with over 58 lakh youth engaged in sporting activities and athletes winning 2,556 national medals since 2021–22, government data released on Thursday showed.
According to the data, UT athletes have secured 843 gold, 737 silver, and 976 bronze medals at national events, along with 84 international medals during the same period.
Youth from urban, rural, tribal, and border areas have participated in initiatives such as My Youth My Pride, Har Din Khel, and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, fostering a strong sports culture.
The Union Territory has established the highest number of Khelo India Centres in India, training over 5,000 children daily across all 20 districts. Participation by women has also increased notably.
JK has hosted several major events, including the 3rd Asian Pencak Silat Championship with 12+ countries, multiple national championships, the 5th Winter Sports edition, and the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival, which involved over 500 athletes from 28 States/UTs.
Infrastructure development has also progressed, with 60+ floodlit stadiums, upgraded turfs, and indoor halls. The UT is promoting iconic destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Wular, and Royal Springs for sports tourism. Additionally, JK hosted seven events of the 69th National School Games and engaged 3,000+ participants in the National Youth Festival 2025 (VBYLD), highlighting youth leadership.
