SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir dragon boat team won two bronze medals in the Open Women’s and Mixed categories at the 13th National Dragon Boat Championship 2026, held in New Delhi from October 18 to 20, with Khyber Cement sponsoring the team’s participation.
The championship, held at Bhalswa Lake, saw more than 700 athletes representing 25 states. The Jammu and Kashmir Dragon Boat Association felicitated the medal-winning athletes in recognition of their performance.
Sheikh Junaid Mehmood, Inspector General of Police and Chief Executive Officer of the J&K Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, attended the ceremony as chief guest, while Wasim Ahmed Khan, Chief Sales and Customer Relations at Khyber Cement, was the guest of honour.
Mehmood commended the association for promoting local sporting talent and providing athletes with opportunities to compete at national and international levels. He also encouraged young women to participate in sports and pursue their ambitions with confidence.
Umar Tramboo, Director of Corporate and Strategy at Khyber Cement, said the medals highlighted the potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth when talent was supported with opportunities.
Khan congratulated the athletes and said the company was keen to explore ways to strengthen the team’s training resources and provide further support.
Association president M. Syed Punoo, a retired IPS officer, and senior vice-president Er Aamir Ali congratulated the medal winners, coach Farooq Ahmed Bhat and the team officials. They also acknowledged the support extended by Khyber Cement and the J&K Police.
