BUDGAM, Apr 24: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday said the Narendra Modi government is building a “structured ecosystem” of opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir — from international sporting arenas to local healthcare jobs — as he inaugurated a ₹165-crore ESIC hospital at Ompora in central Kashmir’s Budgam district.
Speaking after inaugurating the hospital, the Union Sports Minister, as per the Kashmir Convener, said, “The government is providing opportunities to the youth to perform in the sports arena.”
He added, “By 2036, India will be among the top 10 sporting nations, and by 2047, among the top five. Our youth in J&K will be at the forefront of this journey.”
The minister credited the Khelo India and Fit India movements for streamlining sports governance, adding that India’s successful bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the ongoing process to host the 2036 Olympics are translating into real opportunities on the ground.
“This means more academies, more coaches, more competitions — more doors opening for every young boy and girl here,” he said.
On the local front, the Union Sports Minister announced that a nursing college will be added to the newly inaugurated 30-bedded ESIC hospital, which will serve over 50,000 workers and their families free of cost.
“That college will impart training to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir — creating skilled professionals and jobs right here, without them having to migrate,” the minister said.
The dual focus on sport and skill development, officials said, is part of a broader strategy to expand the horizon of aspirations for young Kashmiris beyond traditional sectors.
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