Years of investment in sports infrastructure under Modi Ji’s leadership are finally bearing fruit in J&K: BJP spokesperson Manzoor Bhat
Srinagar, September 30: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Jammu & Kashmir has hailed the recent achievements of young sportspersons from the Union Territory, describing them as historic milestones that showcase the new opportunities created under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji. The party said these successes reflect a generational shift, with J&K youth finally breaking barriers and making their mark at the national and global level.
In recent days, three inspiring figures from Jammu and Kashmir have brought glory to the region. Mithun Manhas from Doda created history by becoming the first person from J&K to be elected President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Before becoming the president, he served as a member of the Cricket Operations and Development Committee of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA).
Manhas began his long playing career in 1997, representing Delhi in the Ranji Trophy, and returned to his home state only towards the end of his career, which concluded in 2016. He played 157 first-class matches, scoring 9,714 runs at an average of 45.82, including 27 centuries. After retiring from competitive cricket, Manhas has contributed to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as part of the support staff, serving as batting coach and assistant coach for franchises such as Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Gujarat Titans. His achievements highlight both his individual excellence and the growing prominence of J&K talent in Indian cricket.
Eighteen-year-old para-archer Sheetal Devi of Kishtwar, born without arms, stunned the world by clinching gold at the World Para Archery Championships in South Korea. Meanwhile, Pulwama’s Owais Yaqoob, a young MMA fighter, secured a remarkable international win in China under the BRAVE Combat Federation banner.
Sheetal’s rise in para-archery has been extraordinary. Her early accomplishments include a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games and a silver medal at the 2023 World Championship, along with a Paralympic mixed team bronze. At Gwangju, she also secured bronze in the mixed team event with Toman Kumar and silver in the women’s compound team event with Sarita. Her victories exemplify determination and skill, inspiring young athletes across Jammu & Kashmir to pursue excellence despite challenges.
J&K BJP spokesperson Manzoor Bhat said that such success was unthinkable under earlier governments, where youth were left directionless due to neglect and lack of opportunity. “For the first time, youth from Jammu and Kashmir are breaking barriers at the highest levels; nationally and globally. This is not by chance, but because of the visionary leadership of PM Modi Ji. Decades of neglect left our youth without opportunities, but today every corner of J&K is witnessing change,” he remarked.
According to Bhat, initiatives like Khelo India, the construction of new stadiums, the setting up of training centers, and the provision of scholarships have completely changed the sports landscape of the Union Territory. He noted that for the first time, infrastructure and mentorship are reaching rural and hilly districts, giving athletes the confidence and support to compete internationally.
Manzoor Bhat added that these victories highlight not only individual brilliance but also the impact of policy reforms. “The success of Mithun, Sheetal, and Owais proves that when given a fair chance, the youth of J&K can match and even outshine the best in the world. Modi Ji’s commitment to Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas is not just a slogan; it is being lived by our youth, who are finally getting their rightful share,” he said.
The J&K BJP congratulated Mithun Manhas, Sheetal Devi, and Owais Yaqoob for their remarkable feats, calling them role models for the new generation. The party reaffirmed that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, the youth of J&K will continue to get full support to pursue excellence, ensuring that many more such stories of pride and inspiration will follow in the years ahead.
