Jammu and Kashmir is one state which has always been in the news for the wrong reasons. From terrorism to freedom demands, J&K is an area where turmoils and curfews are as regular as India defeating Pakistan in a cricket world cup match. All the issues have resulted in the suffering of the common man of Jammu and Kashmir who have been punished for no fault of theirs. However, this Indian state is now trying to make headlines for the right reasons. For this, sports and culture need to be promoted. Undoubtedly, the people of J&K are extremely talented and if they use their energy and talent in the right direction, there can be no stopping them. But things are about to change, as the first ever football academy launched in Jammu and Kashmir hopes to become a source of inspiration for the youth in this troubled state.
ALSO READ : Mesut Ozil big ups Ranveer Singh on Twitter
A prime example is Parvez Rasool who became the first Kashmiri cricketer to represent India at the international level. The Jammu and Kashmir Ranji team has also been playing good cricket. However, the state possesses extremely talented footballers as well who are just waiting to make a mark. A football team called Real Kashmir will tour Scotland in July to play a friendly match. Amidst all this, the people of the valley have some more great news coming their way. The state’s first professional football academy was launched at Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in Srinagar in a bid to boost sports in the state.
Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Molvi Imran Raza Ansari, who launched the academy on Thursday, said it will act as major sports training school and provide players a platform to prepare for national as well as international competitions. Ansari said that overall development of sports culture and initiatives for youth development is prime focus of present government.
ALSO READ : Dirk Kuyt will take part in the ISL next season
“This professional atmosphere will groom young athletes to reach new heights for shining at regional, national and international levels,” he said. Initially, the academy will train footballers in the age groups of 13, 15 and 18 and three professional coaches will be employed for the purpose.
India footballer Mehrajuddin Wadoo would head of the academy. “I am sure that under the ace footballer like Wadoo, the emerging talent will scale new heights. In fact, it is a moment of celebration for us to serve the game, which is much loved in Kashmir.”
“Such initiatives not only make sports a serious endeavour but also motivate youths to pursue career in it”, the Minister added. We indeed hope that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir would utilize these opportunities and pave a good career for themselves leaving behind the horrors of terrorism and warfare. We should be seeing a peaceful and talented Jammu and Kashmir if such initiatives work out in the long run.
