AUG 22: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today attended the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival at the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar, calling the event a “historic moment that beautifully blends the spirit of sports with the natural beauty of Kashmir.”
The opening ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation as athletes from across the country gathered to compete in various water sports disciplines, including rowing, kayaking, and canoeing. The Chief Minister underscored that hosting such a mega sporting event in Srinagar not only highlights the scenic charm of Jammu & Kashmir but also places the Union Territory on the national map as a promising hub for adventure and water sports.
Addressing the gathering, Omar Abdullah said that the festival reflects a new chapter for youth empowerment, peace, and progress in J&K. He noted that the government has been working steadily to build modern sports infrastructure and provide young athletes with the right opportunities to showcase their talent at national and international levels. Events like Khelo India, he said, will further inspire the youth to pursue sports as a career.
The Chief Minister emphasized that while winter sports like skiing have long drawn visitors during the snow season, the promotion of water sports will attract tourists in the summer months, thereby ensuring year-round tourism activity. This shift, he added, will not only boost the region’s reputation as a sports destination but also create new livelihood opportunities for the local community through tourism and hospitality.
Omar Abdullah also expressed gratitude to the organizers, athletes, and spectators, noting that their participation sends out a strong message of unity, normalcy, and cultural vibrancy from Jammu & Kashmir. He assured continued government support for such initiatives, which strengthen both the sporting culture and the socio-economic fabric of the region.
