In his recent Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the changing face of the Kashmir Valley, pointing to two significant sporting events as evidence of this transformation. He lauded the first-ever day-night cricket match in Pulwama and the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival on Srinagar's Dal Lake as testaments to the region's evolving identity and India's growing sporting ambitions.
The Prime Minister noted the remarkable turnout for the day-night cricket match in Pulwama, stating that a record number of people gathered at the stadium. He emphasized that such an event was previously considered impossible, but now symbolizes the changing landscape of the country. Thousands of people, particularly the youth, attended the match, reveling in the experience of night cricket in Pulwama. The match was part of the Royal Premier League, featuring teams from across Jammu and Kashmir. For a district that was once known for tragic incidents, including the Pulwama terror attack of February 14, 2019, this event marked a new chapter of hope, peace, and progress for the region.
The Khelo India Water Sports Festival, held on the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar, also drew praise from the Prime Minister. He acknowledged the unique setting of the festival and its objective to popularize water sports in Jammu and Kashmir. The event witnessed the participation of over 800 athletes from across India, with near equal participation from women. Madhya Pradesh secured the highest number of medals, followed by Haryana and Odisha.
PM Modi also spoke with athletes Rashmita Sahoo from Odisha and Mohsin Ali from Srinagar, who participated in the water sports festival. He congratulated Rashmita on her achievements and inquired about her sporting journey. Rashmita, who started her career in canoeing in 2017, has won an impressive 41 medals, including 13 gold, 14 silver, and 14 bronze, at various national-level championships and National Games. Mohsin Ali, who won a gold medal at the festival, shared that people across Kashmir were proud of his victory and expressed happiness over hosting participants from different states. He also highlighted the warmth and hospitality of the Kashmiri people, which was appreciated by the visitors. Mohsin shared his dream of winning an Olympic medal, recalling how he was inspired by the boats moving on Dal Lake as a child and how his father and coaches encouraged him to pursue water sports. The Prime Minister commended Mohsin's perseverance, emphasizing that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have the potential to make the nation proud and that even the son of a laborer can dream of the Olympics and achieve it through dedication.
The Prime Minister lauded the services provided by security forces and highlighted the efforts of local people, social workers, doctors, and the administration in providing assistance.. He conveyed his gratitude to every citizen who prioritized humanity during this challenging time.
These sporting achievements in Jammu and Kashmir, occurring amidst challenges like heavy rains and floods, demonstrate the resilience and determination of the region to emerge as a hub for sporting talent and tourism. The government has been actively promoting initiatives under the Khelo India program to enhance sports infrastructure and nurture grassroots talent throughout the country. The Prime Minister emphasized that "Jo khelta hai, woh khilta hai (those who play, bloom)," highlighting the connection between sports and prosperity.
