Oct 30: In a major push toward improving sports infrastructure and transport connectivity in North Kashmir, Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Transport, IT and FCS&CA, Shri Satish Sharma, laid the foundation stones for multiple developmental projects in Tangmarg and inaugurated newly completed works at the Kunzer Cricket Ground.
Addressing a large gathering of local residents, youth, and sportspersons, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring inclusive development and creating world-class facilities even in the most remote corners of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the vision of the UT administration under Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha is to bring modern amenities, quality infrastructure, and opportunities closer to the people.
During his visit, Shri Sharma announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art indoor sports stadium for Tangmarg, a long-pending demand of local youth and sports enthusiasts. The facility will enable year-round sporting activities, including badminton, volleyball, table tennis, and fitness training, irrespective of weather conditions. The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to promote youth engagement, sports culture, and talent development across J&K.
At Kunzer Cricket Ground, the Minister inaugurated newly developed facilities aimed at improving the training environment for young cricketers and athletes. He praised the growing sports culture in the Baramulla district and noted that several youth from the region have already shown promising performances at state and national levels. The government, he said, is determined to provide them with the best infrastructure, coaching, and exposure to nurture their potential.
Highlighting the government’s focus on improving mobility and transport accessibility, the Minister also announced that smart bus services will soon be launched to connect Tangmarg and nearby areas with key transport hubs and educational centers. These services will feature GPS tracking, e-ticketing, and eco-friendly vehicles, ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable public transportation in hilly terrains.
Shri Sharma stated that the new initiatives are part of a coordinated strategy to make Tangmarg a model sub-division in terms of infrastructure, connectivity, and youth empowerment. “Our government’s priority is to ensure equitable growth and bridge the urban-rural development gap. Tangmarg, with its tourism potential and energetic youth, deserves the best facilities to progress further,” he said.
Officials from the Youth Services & Sports Department, Transport Department, and district administration Baramulla accompanied the Minister during his visit. They briefed him on the ongoing and upcoming projects, including improvements in road connectivity, renovation of playfields, and the introduction of digital services in public transport management.
The announcement of the indoor sports stadium has generated excitement among the youth of Tangmarg and adjoining areas such as Kunzer, Baba Reshi, and Drung, which are known for their scenic beauty and growing tourist influx. Locals expressed gratitude to the Minister for addressing their long-standing demand and for initiating tangible steps toward holistic development.
The government’s focus on sports and youth engagement aligns with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, emphasizing health, discipline, and empowerment as pillars of a modern and progressive society. The Tangmarg initiatives are expected to not only improve local infrastructure but also create livelihood opportunities in sports coaching, tourism, and transport sectors.
By combining the expansion of sports infrastructure with digital and sustainable transport solutions, the administration aims to create a self-reliant and connected Tangmarg, capable of leveraging its natural and human resources for growth.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to witness rapid development under the current leadership, projects like these reinforce the government’s resolve to deliver grassroots progress, youth empowerment, and better quality of life for every citizen.
