New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 125th edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, lauded Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) for achieving two remarkable milestones despite the devastation caused by recent floods and heavy rains.
Highlighting the developments, PM Modi said, “Amidst the destruction caused by floods and rains, J&K has witnessed two very special achievements. Not many may have noticed them, but you will be happy to know about these milestones.”
The Prime Minister pointed out that Pulwama recently hosted its first-ever day-night cricket match, a historic moment that drew a record number of spectators to the stadium. He noted, “Earlier this was unimaginable, but now my country is changing.”
For the first time, the district also hosted the Royal Premier League, a cricket tournament played under floodlights, symbolizing hope, peace, and progress in a region once in the headlines for tragic incidents, including the Pulwama terror attack of February 2019. The event saw hundreds of spectators turn the venue into a lively celebration of sportsmanship and unity.
PM Modi also spoke about another landmark event—the country’s first Khelo India Water Sports Festival, held at the scenic Dal Lake in Srinagar. “What a special location to host such a festival. Its aim is to popularize water sports in J&K,” he said.
The festival saw participation from over 800 athletes across India, with women competing almost in equal numbers to men. Congratulating the winners, PM Modi said, “Special congratulations to Madhya Pradesh for securing the maximum medals, followed by Haryana and Odisha.”
He added that these initiatives reflect the growing sporting culture in Jammu and Kashmir, opening new avenues of opportunity for the youth.
