Social activist Ishfaq Ahmad Dar on Thursday called on Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Mansukh Mandaviya on the sidelines of the sixth Khelo India Winter Games being held here, urging him to tap into the sporting potential of the Sopore constituency in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
During the meeting, activist Ishfaq Dar, who represented Sopore, drew the Minister’s attention to the need for developing infrastructure for water sports at Wular Lake, one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes. He said the lake holds immense potential for rowing, kayaking, and other water sports disciplines if properly harnessed.
The activist also highlighted the requirement for better sporting facilities in Tazroo, an area known for its cricket culture, and sought the upgradation of the Subhana Sports Stadium in Sopore to accommodate multiple sports activities. He stressed that investment in these areas could provide the constituency’s youth with platforms to excel at the national level.
Ishfaq further emphasised that while the area had produced talented sportspersons, the lack of proper infrastructure remained a significant hurdle.
Responding to the deputation, Dr. Mandaviya assured the activist that the concerns raised would be examined. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to strengthening the sports ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir and creating opportunities for young athletes across the Union Territory.
