Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council continues to make strides in sports development, with athletes excelling across multiple disciplines at the national level. From football to gymnastics and fencing, J&K athletes are making the region proud.
Two trainees from the J&K Sports Council Football Academy, Tajamul Islam from Sopore and Abdul Salha Shergojri from Anantnag, have been selected in the list of 58 probables for the Indian U-20 national team coaching camp. This camp prepares for the upcoming U-20 SAFF Championship, scheduled to be held in India in May 2025. Tajamul, a goalkeeper known for his agility and precision, is currently part of FC Goa’s reserve team, one of the most reputed football clubs in the country. Abdul Salha, a dynamic midfielder with excellent playmaking skills, represents Real Kashmir Football Club. Both players have already showcased their talent at the international level, having previously represented the Indian U-17 team. Their selection reflects their dedication and the quality training they received under expert coaches at the J&K Sports Council Football Academy. These achievements mark a significant milestone not only for the players but also for the footballing ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, inspiring many young athletes across the region.
On Day 1 of the Senior National Rhythmic Gymnastic Championships in Surat, Gujarat, J&K gymnast Muskan Rana demonstrated her dominance, securing the top rank at the national level. A trainee at the J&K Sports Council’s Gymnastic Academy in Jammu, Muskan was declared the best gymnast, surpassing her closest rival, Sanyukta Kale of Maharashtra, who ranked second. Manya, another gymnast from J&K, secured third place. In the senior team championship, the J&K team comprising Muskan Rana, Manya, Shivangi, and Jagriti Thakur won the silver medal, with Maharashtra clinching gold. Muskan and Manya have also qualified for the individual apparatus finals in all four categories—hoop, ball, clubs, and ribbon—and are expected to earn more medals for J&K in the coming days.
J&K Fencers showcased their skills at the 35th Senior National Fencing Championship (Men & Women) 2024-25 in Kannur, Kerala. Vishal Thapar and Shreya Gupta excelled in the sabre event, while Shivaansh Kapoor impressed in the epee event, each earning individual bronze medals. Additionally, the J&K sabre team, comprising Vishal Thapar, Sagar Sahi, Udayveer Chandel, and Suryansh Sharma, secured a bronze medal in a nail-biting finish.
Satish Sharma, Minister of Youth Services & Sports, congratulated the trainees and said that he hopes they will elevate J&K sports to new heights.
Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Sarmad Hafeez (IAS), congratulated the athletes across all sports, saying, “These outstanding performances across disciplines highlight the immense talent and determination of our athletes. Their achievements inspire the entire region, and I am confident they will continue to excel and bring pride to Jammu and Kashmir and the nation.”
Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, added, “The success of our athletes in football, gymnastics, and fencing is a testament to their dedication and the growing sports ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. We remain committed to nurturing talent across all sports and ensuring they have the support needed to shine at the highest levels.”