JAMMU, March 6: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, IT, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, inaugurated the YSS–JKSC Cricket League at M.A. Stadium, Jammu, on Thursday.
The minister formally launched the tournament by unveiling the trophy and distributing team jerseys to the participating teams, marking the start of the highly anticipated cricket league featuring 18 teams. The event is being organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council under the aegis of the Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K.
All matches of the league will be played under floodlights at the stadium, adding to the excitement for spectators. The games will also be live-streamed on YouTube, allowing cricket enthusiasts from across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond to follow the tournament.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, senior officials of the Department of Youth Services and Sports, representatives of sports associations, prominent sportspersons, and a large number of cricket fans.
Speaking on the occasion, Sharma said that sports play a crucial role in shaping character, promoting discipline, and fostering unity among youth. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and creating more opportunities for young sportspersons across Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the YSS–JKSC Cricket League would serve as an important platform for budding cricketers to showcase their talent, gain exposure, and contribute to the growing sports culture in the region.
The minister also lauded the historic achievement of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team in winning the prestigious Ranji Trophy, calling it a moment of immense pride and inspiration for the entire region.
“Jammu and Kashmir has immense sporting talent, and the Ranji Trophy victory has proven that when given opportunities and the right platform, our youth can excel at the national level," he said.
Sharma also reiterated the long-standing demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the aspirations and democratic rights of the people must be respected.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have always believed in democratic values and development. Restoring statehood will further strengthen governance, empower institutions, and accelerate progress in the region,” he said.
The minister also announced several upcoming sporting events in Jammu to expand the region's sports calendar. These include a Football Premier League at Mini Stadium Parade Ground, a national-level cyclothon, and a volleyball league, which are expected to attract wide participation.
Expressing satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of local players, Sharma said the government remains committed to promoting grassroots sports and identifying young talent from every corner of Jammu and Kashmir.
The YSS–JKSC Cricket League carries attractive prize money, with the winning team set to receive ₹3 lakh and the runner-up ₹1.5 lakh. Individual awards will also be presented, including ₹20,000 for the Man of the Series, along with other recognitions for outstanding performances.
The minister formally launched the tournament by unveiling the trophy and distributing team jerseys to the participating teams, marking the start of the highly anticipated cricket league featuring 18 teams. The event is being organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council under the aegis of the Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K.
All matches of the league will be played under floodlights at the stadium, adding to the excitement for spectators. The games will also be live-streamed on YouTube, allowing cricket enthusiasts from across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond to follow the tournament.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, senior officials of the Department of Youth Services and Sports, representatives of sports associations, prominent sportspersons, and a large number of cricket fans.
Speaking on the occasion, Sharma said that sports play a crucial role in shaping character, promoting discipline, and fostering unity among youth. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and creating more opportunities for young sportspersons across Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the YSS–JKSC Cricket League would serve as an important platform for budding cricketers to showcase their talent, gain exposure, and contribute to the growing sports culture in the region.
The minister also lauded the historic achievement of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team in winning the prestigious Ranji Trophy, calling it a moment of immense pride and inspiration for the entire region.
“Jammu and Kashmir has immense sporting talent, and the Ranji Trophy victory has proven that when given opportunities and the right platform, our youth can excel at the national level," he said.
Sharma also reiterated the long-standing demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the aspirations and democratic rights of the people must be respected.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have always believed in democratic values and development. Restoring statehood will further strengthen governance, empower institutions, and accelerate progress in the region,” he said.
The minister also announced several upcoming sporting events in Jammu to expand the region's sports calendar. These include a Football Premier League at Mini Stadium Parade Ground, a national-level cyclothon, and a volleyball league, which are expected to attract wide participation.
Expressing satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of local players, Sharma said the government remains committed to promoting grassroots sports and identifying young talent from every corner of Jammu and Kashmir.
The YSS–JKSC Cricket League carries attractive prize money, with the winning team set to receive ₹3 lakh and the runner-up ₹1.5 lakh. Individual awards will also be presented, including ₹20,000 for the Man of the Series, along with other recognitions for outstanding performances.
