Jammu and Kashmir has recently witnessed a historic moment in its sporting landscape with the successful hosting of its first-ever franchise-based football league. This initiative marks a significant step towards elevating the sport in the region, providing a platform for local talent and fostering a sporting culture. The league, named Kashmir Super League (KSL), is being organized under the supervision of the J&K Sports Council.
The KSL is envisioned to revolutionize football in Kashmir, offering clubs, businesses, and football enthusiasts a chance to be part of a professionally managed league. Several Kashmir-based leading corporate houses have shown interest in buying teams for the KSL, demonstrating their willingness to conduct the league every year. Athwas India-11 was unveiled as the first official football franchise in the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League (KSL) 2025, with robust backing from Athwas Hyundai, a unit of IA Multi Ventures Pvt. Ltd. Irfaan Guju stated that they are not just launching a team but igniting a football movement in Jammu & Kashmir, dedicated to empowering young talent and positioning J&K prominently on the national sports map.
A key highlight of the league is the player auction, where athletes are bagging substantial amounts, reflecting the growing value and recognition of their skills. The independent body is also trying to get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the League as most of the state's prominent footballers are working at the state government's different departments. The organizers have put an option of roping in foreign footballers as well as prominent footballers from other states if they fail to get NOCs for most of the state footballers.
The J&K Sports Council has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing grassroots talent, and the trials are part of broader efforts to elevate football in the region. The selection process follows preliminary trials held across various districts, ensuring a diverse pool of candidates. The chosen players will undergo intensive training to prepare for the championship, aiming to bring pride to Jammu and Kashmir through their performance.
The league also aims to foster a sporting culture, promote corporate engagement in sports, and provide a platform for emerging footballers to shine on a larger stage, underlining a strong commitment to youth engagement and positive narratives emerging from the region.
This event is a significant milestone in the development of football in the region. The debut of Athwas India-11 has already generated widespread excitement, setting a strong precedent for corporate participation in nurturing grassroots football and building an inclusive sports ecosystem in J&K.
The league promises wide media coverage, professional management, and a direct pathway for young footballers to shine on a bigger stage. This initiative is expected to strengthen football coaching in J&K, and future collaborations between the Dutch Football Federation and the J&K Government are anticipated to sustain and expand such exchange programs.
