Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated on Sunday that peace is essential for the development of tourism and sports in Jammu and Kashmir. He addressed this critical issue during a press conference while launching the jersey of the Real Kashmir Football Club.
Abdullah remarked, “For development, tourism or sports… we need peace for everything. If we talk about having day and night matches, and if the situation is not good, then who will come to play in the evening?” His comments underline the profound impact of peace on economic growth in the region.
On November 2, the chief minister announced the second edition of the Kashmir marathon to promote local sports and invite athletes nationwide. He said, “I want to extend an invitation to athletes from across the country, especially those interested in a half-marathon, to come to Srinagar and join us.” Abdullah believes that sports can foster unity and camaraderie among the people.
The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha echoed similar sentiments on Saturday, stating that peace was vital for development in Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged the remaining elements of terrorism within the Union Territory and called for collaborative efforts to ensure a stable environment.
Abdullah highlighted his government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure across the region. “There is hardly any assembly segment where some sports infrastructure is not being built by our government. We design infrastructure based on the youth’s interests,” he explained. This initiative aims to offer conducive environments for athletic pursuits.
As he launched the special edition “Peace Jersey” of Real Kashmir FC, he emphasized the symbolism of sports in promoting peace and community spirit. Designed in collaboration with the renowned Danish sportswear brand Hummel, the jersey features nods to Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage. Abdullah noted, “The jersey echoes the aspirations for communal harmony, housing representations of a shrine, a temple, and a gurdwara.”
Addressing concerns regarding the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, which has faced challenges due to landslides after heavy rains, he assured that repairs are forthcoming. “We haven’t been able to do black-topping on the 300-meter stretch that was washed away, but we will do that after some time,” he stated. Currently, he confirmed, “no vehicles are stranded.”
Abdullah further urged stakeholders to take shared responsibility for restoring peace in Jammu and Kashmir. “The responsibility of establishing peace does not fall solely with me. Those responsible should fulfill their obligation.” His assertion, reflecting a broader sentiment about accountability, has resonated with the public.
As tourism and sports sectors will, without doubt, flourish only in a peaceful environment, Abdullah remains optimistic. “Sports are a vital bridge for peace,” he concluded, reiterating how football can unite diverse communities.
The focus on peaceful conditions in Jammu and Kashmir promises not just to enhance the tourism sector but also to inspire young athletes by elevating sports in the valley.