Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday highlighted the remarkable transformation the Union Territory has witnessed in recent years, noting that “bandh calendars” have now been replaced by Khelo India calendars, and the voices of youth echo in stadiums rather than on the streets.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the Khelo India Water Sports Festival at Dal Lake, Sinha said, “A vibrant sports ecosystem has been developed in J-K. Over the past 5–6 years, participation in various sports disciplines has surged from 3–4 lakh to 30–40 lakh.”
He urged participants to become ambassadors of J-K, sharing the story of the region’s transformation when they return home. “Tell the country that the youth of J-K are participating in sporting events just like elsewhere. Inform them that no bandh or hartal calendars are issued anymore; instead, Khelo India calendars set the pace. Our youth now make their voices heard in stadiums, not streets,” he said.
Sinha emphasized that these developments are a matter of pride for both J-K and the nation. “The crown jewel of India has endured decades of hardship. Today, the youth of J-K are embracing a new life. I hope you will represent J-K and share this story of transformation across the country,” he added.
He also highlighted the broader impact of hosting a national-level sporting event, saying it sends a strong message of peace, normalcy, and progress in the region. “While winter sports attract visitors during the snowy season, water sports will boost summer tourism, benefiting the local economy,” Sinha noted.
