Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Science & Technology, ARI & Trainings, and Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, today reviewed the arrangements and facilities being put in place at Chandanwari for smooth conduct of the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026.
During his visit to Chandanwari, the Minister took stock of the preparedness and reviewed the facilities being established for the annual pilgrimage. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination among all the concerned departments to ensure that adequate arrangements are put in place for the convenience, safety and well-being of the pilgrims.
He emphasised that all necessary works and services must be completed in a timely manner so that the pilgrimage is conducted in a smooth, safe and well-organised manner. Later, Satish Sharma attended a sports event at Kashmiri Pandit Colony, Vessu.
While addressing the gathering at Vessu, Minister said that sports are a powerful instrument for shaping a healthy, disciplined and progressive society. He said that the youth possess immense talent and energy and it is the collective responsibility of society and the government to provide them with the right platforms, facilities and encouragement so that they can excel in sports and contribute positively to the society.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youth, residents and sports enthusiasts, reflecting the growing spirit of sports and collective community involvement in the area. Satish Sharma said that sports are not merely recreational activities but a powerful medium for building discipline, confidence, leadership and social harmony among the youth.
He said that such events at the grassroots level play a vital role in channelising the energy of young people towards positive and productive pursuits, while also helping in identifying the emerging talent. “Events like this not only promote physical fitness and competitive spirit but also strengthen the bonds of unity, brotherhood and mutual respect within the community,” the Minister said.
Satish Sharma said that the government is committed to take sports infrastructure and youth-centric initiatives to every nook and corner of Jammu and Kashmir. “We are working with a clear vision to create more opportunities for young people, identify talent at the grassroots and ensure that our youth have access to modern facilities and proper guidance.
Sports must become a mass movement in Jammu and Kashmir, and such community-level events are an important step in that direction,” he added. The Minister emphasised that the government is committed to create a robust sports ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir by strengthening infrastructure, expanding access to sporting facilities and ensuring greater opportunities for youth participation in sports and allied activities.
Interacting with the participants and local residents, the Minister appreciated the enthusiasm shown by the youth and encouraged them to actively take part in sports and other constructive activities.