Handwara Athlete Mehreen Jan Wins National Gold, Secures BSF Posting

Suhail Khan

 

Handwara, Jan 08: Dedication and discipline in sport can lead not only to medals but also to a sustainable livelihood—a reality increasingly visible in Jammu and Kashmir, where young athletes are carving out independent futures through competitive excellence.

 

One such example is 21-year-old Mehreen Jan from Handwara, a karate player who has represented Kashmir at national and international platforms and continues her determined pursuit of excellence. Her journey reflects how martial arts, once seen merely as a pastime, are now emerging as a viable professional pathway.

 

Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Mehreen said martial arts have undergone a transformation in recent years. “I recently won a gold medal at the Federation Cup National Championship in Chhattisgarh,” she said, adding that she has been practising martial arts for nearly a decade across state, national and local competitions.

 

Earlier, she recalled, athletes from the region struggled due to limited exposure. “We competed, but opportunities were fewer. Today, the sport is no longer just about performance—it brings dignity, respect and livelihood,” she said. Competing outside the region, she added, also helps athletes realistically assess their skills against players from across the country.

 

Mehreen credited the changing sports ecosystem to improved institutional support. She said initiatives under the leadership of Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, have opened doors for athletes. “Now we travel, compete and return with victories. We have proper facilities and academies, and we can chase our dreams with confidence,” she said.

 

Reflecting on her early years, Mehreen said her passion for karate began in childhood, though initial resistance came from within the family and society. “My father was hesitant at first, and people criticised the sport. But with time, my parents became my biggest strength,” she said, adding that she has since won several gold medals at various championships.

 

She said perseverance helped her overcome social discouragement. “There was a time when people asked me to stop, but criticism gradually turned into encouragement. Today, the same sport earns me respect,” she said.

 

Mehreen’s efforts have now translated into professional security. She recently secured a job opportunity with the BSF’s Wushu team, a milestone she described as “a blessing and a new beginning” that she hopes will inspire other girls.

 

“Sport is not just a game; for many of us, it is a reason to live and a means of survival,” she said. Urging young people to pursue sports seriously, Mehreen added that commitment and honesty in any discipline can help athletes not only achieve success but also build a stable livelihood.