Handwara, Mar 29: In a vibrant display of sportsmanship and youth engagement, the Indian Armyâs Langate Camp organised the North Kashmir Volleyball Premier League (NKVPL) Phase-1 at BHS Hangah, Handwara, drawing an enthusiastic response from players and spectators alike. Six teams from different parts of the region participated in the tournament, showcasing the growing passion for volleyball among local youth. The final match, played between Langate Spartans and Rafiabad Tigers, turned out to be a thrilling contest, with Rafiabad Tigers securing a narrow 3-2 victory to lift the title. A large crowd from various areas thronged the venue to witness the high-energy final, cheering for their teams and adding to the electrifying atmosphere. Former DDC member Mawer, Khursheed Ahmad, while appreciating the initiative, said that such events are vital for channeling the energy of youth in a positive direction. "Sports activities like this not only help in identifying local talent but also play a significant role in promoting unity and harmony among people,â he said. Locals also lauded the efforts behind organizing the tournament, stating that it provided a valuable platform for young players to showcase their skills while fostering a sense of community spirit. The successful conclusion of the league highlighted the importance of sports in strengthening social bonds and encouraging constructive engagement among the youth.
Jammu, March 12: J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that the peace we enjoy today, the peace that lets families gather, athletes compete, and communities thrive, did not come without a price. âThis peace was secured through the sacrifices of the J&K Police, the Army, and the CAPFs. Thousands of police personnel, soldiers, and CAPF bravehearts gave their lives protecting the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Our duty is not just to remember them, but to ensure their sacrifice endures, preserving the peace they won,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor issued a stern warning to those who seek to destroy this peace: âYou will find no place to hide. We will hunt you down from the deepest depthsâ. The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at the closing ceremony of 2nd All India Police Kabaddi Cluster 2025-26 (Men & Women) at MA Stadium Jammu. The Lieutenant Governor felicitated the sportspersons from State Police Forces and CAPFs participated in different sports disciplines including Kabaddi, Gymnastics, Fencing and Kho-Kho. He said the discipline, and determination displayed by the participants truly reflect the core values of policing. âSports have always bridged divides through their unmatched reliability. Language, geography, social status, rank, and authority fade away on the field. There, only courage and resolve matter. The sports ground binds us in a shared humanity. This is an education possible only on the ground, and it has the power to shape the character of the young generation. Such sporting events carry another vital lesson: lasting public security, peace and prosperity is strengthened from trust and values,â the Lieutenant Governor said. Lauding Jammu Kashmir Police, the Lieutenant Governor said that through the Civic Action Programme, the J&K Police has kept alive the conviction that we belong to community, that we care for youth, and that we believe in their future. âThe people here have always seen the Jammu & Kashmir Police as a guide, a mentor â an integral part of the community. These competitions are an expression of exactly that spirit,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor called upon the youth of Jammu Kashmir to recognize and fully seize the extraordinary potential of the Union Territory they have inherited. âDream big, with the health, freedom, and opportunities to make those dreams real,â the Lieutenant Governor said. Emphasizing that a bright future requires a healthy foundation, the Lieutenant Governor urged the younger generation to stay vigilant against the menace of narcotics and lead a collective war against drugs. âSports teach the power of shared purpose: a dedicated team achieves what no individual can. These lessons extend beyond the field, forming the foundation of life's greatest triumphs,â the Lieutenant Governor further said. The Lieutenant Governor also felicitated the J&K cricket team on clinching their maiden Ranji trophy title. The Lieutenant Governor extended heartfelt congratulations to the champions for this landmark triumph. An e-Souvenir of the 2nd All India Police Kabaddi Cluster 2025-26 was also released on the occasion. DGP J&K Nalin Prabhat, Special DG (Coordination) S.J.M Gillani, Commandant General Home Guards, Civil Defence & SDRF J&K Abdul Ghani Mir, ADGP Armed Police Anand Jain, ADGP Headquarters MK Sinha, Joint Director IB Pankaj Thakur, senior officials of J&K Police and civil administration and eminent sports personalities attended the closing ceremony.
Kolkata, Mar 11: India is set to host a top international archery competition for the first time in 22 years with Delhi being awarded the second leg of the Asia Cup in 2027, following approvals from World Archery Asia during a meeting here on Tuesday. The country last staged a major international archery tournament when the Asian Archery Championships were held in Delhi in 2005. The decision was finalised after World Archery Asia president Kazi Rajib Uddin Ahmed Chapol, who is on a three-day visit to Kolkata, met Archery Association of India secretary general Virendra Sachdeva to discuss the hosting of upcoming international tournaments. "We are positive about Delhi hosting it and there should not be any problem. If the Archery Association of India wants, they will host it. We are also considering Delhi as the venue for the Commonwealth Archery Championships next year," Kazi Rajib Uddin Ahmed Chapol told PTI. In another boost, Ahmedabad will host the Asian Para Archery Championships in September this year. Meanwhile, Kolkata will also get to stage an international competition after several years as it has been awarded the South Asian Archery Championships 2026. The city last hosted an international archery event in 2009 when it staged the Asian Archery Grand Prix 2009. Kolkata may also get to host the senior national archery championships next year, though it's yet to be finalised. This year's National championships will be held in Shillong. This will be a demanding year for the archers with the Asian Games slated in September-October at Aichi-Nagoya in Japan. Indian archers will begin their international season with the opening stage of the Asia Cup Archery in Bangkok from March 21-26. The second leg of the competition is scheduled in Iraq in April, though its staging remains uncertain due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. China will host the third and final leg in November. The opening stage of the Archery World Cup this year will be held in Puebla, Mexico, from April 7-12. The second and third legs will be hosted in Shanghai from May 5 to 10 and Antalya, Turkey from June 9 to 14 respectively. (PTI)
Ahmedabad, Mar 9: New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner said his underdog team was outplayed by a great side in the T20 World Cup final after India notched a massive 96-run win to defend the trophy here on Sunday. India became the first team to win three world titles in the shortest format after securing the trophy earlier in 2007 and 2024. "Obviously, tonight, we were outplayed by a great team in front of a great crowd," Santner said in the post-match presentation. Santner won the toss and put India in to bat. The home side raced to a record 255/5 in their 20 overs before bowling out the Black Caps for 159. "It was a pretty good wicket throughout. Had we got a couple of wickets in powerplay and kept India's total to 220, it could have been a good chase," Santner rued. "Losing a series of finals isn't ideal. India is always a challenge. We were underdogs," he added. Santner, who walked in to a rousing applause from the large crowd here, congratulated India for a domineering campaign. "...credit to India to win a title at home, it always comes with a lot of pressure. And I think, SKY (India captain Surykumar Yadav) and the boys should be pretty.. very, very proud of their work," he said.
Ahmedabad, Mar 8: Sanju Samson on Sunday attributed his phenomenal success in the business end of India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign to his "big conversations" with Sachin Tendulkar, saying he had been in constant touch with the batting great for last two months. Samson was adjudged the Player of the Tournament for his explosive knocks in the last three matches of the event, including the semifinal against England and the final against New Zealand. "For the last couple of months, I have been in constant contact with Sachin sir. I reached out to him and had big big conversations with him. Getting a guidance from someone like him, what more can you ask for? "I am very grateful for everyone who supported me," Samson said India's 96-run win in the title clash in which he top-scored with a scintillating 89. Samson, who was struggling prior to the World Cup, added, "Feels like a dream. Very happy and grateful. Out of words, out of emotions. "To be honest, it started one-two years before. When I was in the 2024 World Cup team where I didn't play, I kept visualising, kept on working and this was exactly what I wanted to do. After the New Zealand series I was broken, my dreams were completely shattered. "And I was thinking what can I do. But God had different plans. And I was rewarded for being brave enough to dream. A lot of former players have reached out to me and tried to help me out." Asked what more does he want to achieve, the wicketkeeper-batter said, "This itself is very big for me, I want to enjoy it right now and then after a few days will figure out what more to do."Â
Ahmedabad, Mar 8: India produced a batting spectacle of rare ferocity to overwhelm New Zealand by 96 runs in the summit clash and defend the T20 World Cup title after posting a record total here on Sunday. Powered by a blazing 89 from Sanju Samson and explosive half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma (52) and Ishan Kishan (54), India's top order went on a six-hitting spree to leave the New Zealand bowlers shell-shocked in the title clash, posting a massive 255 for five. The total was the highest ever posted in a T20 World Cup final, capping a dominant display by the defending champions on the biggest stage of the tournament. India also became the first team to win the tournament. The scoreboard pressure got to the Black Caps who desperately went after the Indian bowlers and ended up losing three quick wickets initially. Their biggest hope Finn Allen (9) and the dangerous Glenn Phillips (5) perished early and with that New Zealand's chances of putting up a decent fight went up in smoke. Axar Patel (3/27) and Jasprit Bumrah (4/15) had bulldozed the Kiwi innings and with the departure of Tim Seifert (52 off 26), the contest was reduced to a formality. Invited to bat, Samson and Abhishek went on the offensive, tearing into the Kiwi attack with audacious strokeplay. The duo hammered boundaries at will and raised a breathtaking 98-run opening stand in just 7.1 overs, setting the tone for a massive total. Batting with sheer authority and least respect for the Kiwi bowlers, India crossed the 200-run mark in 15 overs. However, New Zealand succeeded in putting the brake on the run flow by dismissing Samson, Kishan and skipper Suryakumar Yadav (0) in a space of six balls. Pacer James Neesham took all three wickets in the 16th over to somehow stop the game from slipping away. Hardik Pandya (18) did not last long but Shivam Dube (26 not out) provided a flourishing finish, creaming off 24 runs in the final over from Neesham. India managed 52 in last five overs, thanks to Dube's fiery knock. Brief Scores: India: 255 for 5 in 20 overs. (Sanju Samson 89, Ishan Kishan 54, Abhishek Sharma 52; James Neesham 3/46). New Zealand: 159 all out in 19 overs. (Tim Seifert 52, J Bumrah 4/15, Axar Patel 3/23). (PTI)
Jaipur, Mar 8: While the ICC Men's T20 World Cup attracts global attention for its high-octane cricket, the tournament also has a little-known connection with Jaipur, where the iconic trophy was crafted. Jaipur-based trophy designer Amit Pabuwal said the trophy for the tournament was made by him after the initial design concept was prepared by Australiaâs Minale Bryce. Pabuwal said the design outline of the trophy was prepared in 2007, the year the inaugural edition of the ICC Menâs T20 World Cup was held. Following that, the International Cricket Council entrusted him with the task of crafting the trophy. âOnce the design outline was finalised, the ICC assigned me the work of making the trophy. That is how the ICC T20 World Cup trophy was produced in 2007,â he told PTI. Pabuwal said he had earlier designed the worldâs largest silver âFriendship Cupâ trophy for cricket, which drew attention and eventually led the ICC to approach him for the T20 World Cup trophy. "The ICC had initially planned to create the trophy using a combination of titanium and glass so that the design would reflect the fast and modern style of T20 cricket,â he said. "Several prototypes were prepared, but the glass components repeatedly broke when being integrated with the metal structure, making the concept technically difficult to execute. After several experiments, I advised that the combination would not work technically." He said the final version was made of silver with platinum plating, making it durable and suitable for an international tournament. Pabuwal added that the original trophy remains at the ICC headquarters, while the winning team receives an identical replica. The trophy stands about 21 inches tall, weighs around six kilograms and is made of silver with platinum plating, he said. (PTI)
New Delhi, Mar 7:Â Air India Express and Akasa Air on Friday announced that they will operate special flights to Ahmedabad, providing more travel options to the city for the T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand on March 8. "To facilitate cricket fans travelling to witness the final, the airline will operate additional flights to Ahmedabad from Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. These flights have been scheduled in response to the sharp increase in demand for travel to the city as fans across the country plan to attend the highly anticipated match," Air India Express said in a release. The airline also said it continues to closely monitor booking trends and might consider further capacity enhancements based on demand. Akasa Air will operate special direct flights between Mumbai and Ahmedabad on March 8 and 9, complementing its existing network between the two cities. "SkyLights will illuminate the cabin with the colours of the Indian tricolour, leveraging the dynamic lighting features of the Boeing Sky Interior to create an immersive and festive onboard ambience for guests travelling to witness the grand finale," the airline said in a statement. Also, through SkyScore, Akasa Air said its passengers can get live match scores even while in the air. (PTI)
Srinagar, Feb 28: Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) is set to play its maiden match of the newly rebranded Indian Football League (IFL) against Dempo Sports Club in Goa on Sunday. The Kashmir-based club is the only team from J&K participating in the I League over the past several years. The I-League, one of Indiaâs top-tier football competitions, has been renamed as the Indian Football League from this season. Addressing a pre-match press conference, RKFC head coach Ishfaq Ahmad said the team is prepared for a challenging contest against a strong opponent. âDempo Sports Club has a long history of playing quality football. They usually perform very well, especially on their home ground. We are expecting a competitive and exciting game,â Ishfaq said. He acknowledged that the weather conditions in Goa may pose a challenge for the visiting side. âThe temperature here is quite hot and not ideal for football, particularly for teams coming from cooler regions. However, our players are well prepared to overcome these challenges and we are hopeful of putting up a good performance,â he added. The coach also welcomed the return of competitive football in the country, noting that both the Indian Super League and the Indian Football League have resumed after a prolonged gap. Owned by Arshad Shawl, RKFC has been working steadily to promote and strengthen football in Jammu and Kashmir. The squad features a mix of talented local players along with national and international recruits. RKFC player Mohammad Inam described Dempo as a tough opponent but expressed confidence in the teamâs preparations. âThis is our first match of the season and it is an away game. The weather is also quite different from what we are used to. Still, we are determined to play good football and hope not to disappoint our supporters,â he said. He also appealed to fans back home to continue supporting the team and follow their journey through social media as the season begins. The match is scheduled to begin at 4 pm and will be live on various channels.
Srinagar, Feb 28: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone extended his warmest congratulations to the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on their historic rise as national champions by securing the maiden Ranji Trophy. In his message, he lauded the players, coaching staff, and team management for their exceptional skill, resilience and unwavering commitment. He described the victory as far more than a sporting accomplishment, calling it a moment of collective pride that resonates deeply across every corner of Jammu and Kashmir. He made a special mention of Auqib Nabi, whose remarkable performance throughout the tournament stood out as one of the most compelling bowling displays in recent domestic cricket. His consistency, decisive breakthroughs, and match-winning spells proved instrumental in steering the team toward championship glory. âThis triumph is the culmination of years of perseverance, discipline and belief. The team has showcased the extraordinary talent and resolve that define Jammu and Kashmir. It has been a long wait, and today, that wait has transformed into a moment of immense pride for us all,â he said. He also congratulated the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their steadfast support, expressing hope that this historic achievement will ignite the dreams of a new generation of aspiring cricketers across the region. Emphasizing the road ahead, he underlined the need to further strengthen sports infrastructure and systematically nurture emerging talent to ensure that this moment of glory evolves into a sustained legacy of excellence.
Srinagar, Feb 25: Jammu and Kashmir tightened their grip on the Ranji Trophy final with a dominant batting display, piling up 527 for 6 at stumps on the second day against Karnataka cricket team. Resuming with a solid platform, J&K extended their advantage through vital contributions from skipper Paras Dogra (70), wicketkeeper-batter Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70) and an unbeaten 57 from Sahil Lotra, capping a hard-fought and largely one-sided day for the visitors. The Karnataka bowlers toiled for long hours with little reward. India pacer Prasidh Krishna stood out with figures of 3 for 90 in 29 overs, extracting bounce and maintaining discipline. However, the rest of the attack struggled to contain J&Kâs steady scoring, particularly as the pitch eased out in the post-lunch session. The hosts struck early in the morning session, removing overnight centurion Shubham Pundir for 121. His marathon 247-ball knock, laced with 12 boundaries and two sixes, had already laid a robust foundation for the imposing total. Abdul Samad, who contributed a fluent 61, soon followed after edging behind off Prasidh, leaving J&K at 307 for 4 and offering Karnataka a glimmer of hope. That opportunity, however, was short-lived. Dogra and Wadhawan combined for a crucial 110-run partnership, blunting the pace threat before asserting themselves against the spinners. Wadhawanâs brisk 70 came off 109 deliveries and included nine boundaries, while Dograâs composed 166-ball effort was marked by eight fours and immense patience at the crease. After Wadhawan was snapped up in the slips by KL Rahul off Shikhar Shetty, Dogra continued to anchor the innings, forging another productive stand with Lotra. The latter brought up a well-compiled half-century and remained unbeaten at the close, ensuring J&K crossed the 500-run mark with wickets still in hand. With a formidable total already on the board, Karnataka will look to wrap up the innings quickly on the third morning and rely on their experienced batting line-up to mount a response in what is shaping up to be a final likely determined by the first-innings advantage.
Gulmarg, Feb 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday stressed the urgent need for artificial snow generation in Gulmarg to safeguard winter sports and strengthen tourism, saying climate variability poses a serious challenge to traditional winter games in the region. Addressing the commencement of the Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg, the Chief Minister welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of adapting to changing weather conditions. He said that recent snowfall patterns have become unpredictable, forcing authorities to rethink long-term planning for winter sports infrastructure. CM said the government is committed to developing Gulmarg as an international skiing destination and ensuring consistent sporting activity despite climate challenges. He also underlined that reliance solely on natural snowfall is no longer sustainable and called for the introduction of artificial snow generation systems to secure the future of winter games. He further acknowledged that some concerns may arise over artificial snow projects but said such measures are necessary to prevent loss of tourism opportunities and protect livelihoods linked to winter tourism. âThousands of local stakeholders, including hoteliers, guides, transport operators and small businesses, depend on the winter season,â he added. The Chief Minister said the administration will extend every possible support to athletes and sports infrastructure to nurture more international-level competitors from Jammu and Kashmir. He congratulated skier Arif Khan for bringing laurels to the region and expressed hope that more athletes would emerge from the games. He added that participation in sports remains as important as winning medals, adding that sustained investment in winter sports and tourism will position Gulmarg among leading global skiing destinations while ensuring economic stability for local communities.
Baramulla, Feb 20: The Chinar Open Winter Games 2026, a flagship initiative of the Indian Army, concluded amidst the breath taking snow clad landscapes of Gulmarg in Baramulla district. The event was organised under the aegis of Dagger Division Baramulla of Chinar Corps. The event was a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, community spirit and youth empowerment.  The games provided a versatile platform for the youth of Kashmir to showcase their talents and channelise their energy into competitive and constructive pursuits. This edition witnessed record-breaking participation of 660 skiers-- 166 girls and 494 boys, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for winter sports across the region and the steady rise in women participation. The event featured an exhilarating line up of winter sports competitions, ranging from high adrenaline skiing races and thrilling snowboarding events to graceful skating performances. The participants tested their abilities against some of the regionâs finest athletes, drawing large and enthusiastic crowds of locals, tourists and sports enthusiasts. Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command graced the occasion and interacted with participants, organisers and members of the local community. He lauded the exceptional organisation of the Games and commended the high standard of sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes. He appreciated the initiative as a meaningful endeavour to channelise the aspirations of Kashmirâs youth towards constructive Nation building activities and reaffirmed the Armyâs steadfast commitment to fostering peace, progress and opportunity through sports. Beyond the excitement of the competitions, the games reinforced the Indian Armyâs enduring bond with the people. These initiatives highlighted Indian Armyâs contribution towards promoting sports, nurturing young talent and developing Gulmarg as a premier winter sports destination. "The event stood as a testament to Kashmirâs rising sporting culture and growing prominence of Gulmarg as a hub of winter sports in India," the handout reads.
Srinagar, Feb 15: Real Kashmir FCâs Uâ16 team delivered a commanding performance in their first-ever home fixture in the AIFF Junior League this season, cruising to a 7â1 victory over Young Football Club (Khad) at the TRC Ground in Srinagar on Sunday. The match marked RKFC Uâ16âs debut on home soil in the league, having previously played their fixtures outside Jammu and Kashmir. From the opening whistle, the locally born lineup asserted control, maintaining possession and converting chances with clinical precision. Standout performer Himayat was the star of the show, dazzling supporters with three goals. After scoring, he paid a touching tribute to his mother by writing, âMom, your blessings are my real victoryâ on his jersey â a moment that captured the hearts of fans at the ground. The teamâs relentless attack and organized defense overwhelmed the visitors, with goals coming from a well-distributed attacking unit, showcasing the depth of talent in RKFCâs youth ranks. In a post-match statement, the management congratulated the players for their disciplined and spirited display, underlining the importance of nurturing local talent. Owned by Arshad Shawl, Real Kashmir FC continues its mission to provide a platform for Kashmiri youth. RKFC remains the only club from Jammu and Kashmir competing in the national I-League, now rebranded as the Indian Football League.
Srinagar, Feb 9: Jammu and Kashmir on Monday etched their name in history by entering the Ranji Trophy semifinals for the first time after defeating former champions Madhya Pradesh by 56 runs, riding on an outstanding bowling display by pacer Auqib Nabi. Chasing a target of 291 runs, Madhya Pradesh were bundled out for 234, handing J&K a memorable victory and a spot in the last four of Indiaâs premier domestic cricket tournament, 67 years after their maiden Ranji appearance. Auqib Nabi emerged as the chief architect of the win, registering a career-best match haul of 12 wickets. The 29-year-old fast bowler followed his first-innings spell of 7 for 40 with a decisive 5 for 70 in the second innings, dismantling the MP batting order and finishing with figures of 12 for 110. Madhya Pradesh, who resumed the day at 84 for 5, struggled to build momentum as Auqib struck early, dismissing Ramveer Gurjar (11) and later ending the resistance of Saransh Jain, who scored a fighting 64 off 81 deliveries. India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer was removed early in the day, adding just 20 runs to the overnight total. Tailender Aryan Pandey contributed 22 runs, while left-arm spinner Abid Mushtaq provided vital support to Auqib by claiming three wickets for 49 runs to seal the historic win. With this victory, Jammu and Kashmir have advanced to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the quarterfinal between Andhra and Bengal. The other semifinal will be contested between Uttarakhand and Karnataka. J&K had last reached the Ranji knockout stage six years ago. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the J&K cricket team on their landmark achievement. In a post on X, the Office of the Chief Minister lauded the team for their historic victory over Madhya Pradesh and wished them success for the semifinal scheduled to be played on February 15. BRIEF SCORES: Jammu & Kashmir: 194 & 248 all out (70.3 overs) Madhya Pradesh: 152 & 234 all out (68.3 overs) Shubham Sharma 32, Saransh Jain 64; Auqib Nabi 5/70, Abid Mushtaq 3/49.Â
Srinagar, Feb 9: In a significant development, the team of Sanctorum School Sopore etched their name in Kashmir football history by emerging as Champions of the U-15 Kashmir Championship organized by Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS). The two-month-long league-based championship culminated on Monday at the TRC Astro Turf, Srinagar. In the match, the team from Sanctorum stood tall among the finest football academies of the region. Displaying consistency, discipline, and high-quality football throughout the tournament, Sanctorum defeated some of the top football academies and institutions of Kashmir, including Downtown Heroes, Sports Council Football Academy, Ganderbal FC, and DPS Baramulla and lifted the coveted championship title. The league format tested the endurance, tactical awareness, and mental strength of young players over an extended period, and Sanctorum rose to the occasion with remarkable composure and teamwork. âThis championship is the result of months of hard work, discipline, and belief shown by our boys," coach of the team, Ramis Ali said. "Playing a league for two months is never easy, but the players remained focused from the first match to the last," he said. He expressed his satisfaction over the commitment, character of the player besides their hunger to improve. "This title belongs to the players who trusted the process and gave their best every single day," Ali said. Chairman Sanctorum Institute Sopore Shakir Ashraf said the victory was not just a trophy but a reflection of their long-term vision of nurturing grassroots football and providing young talent with the right platform. "Sanctorum believes in sports as a powerful tool to shape character, discipline, and purpose among youth. I congratulate our players, coaching staff, and parents for this remarkable achievement," Ashraf said. He thanked Reliance Foundation Youth Sports for organising a professionally managed championship in Kashmir.
Bulawayo, Jan 28: India moved to the top of the Group 2 points table with a convincing win over Zimbabwe in the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup. Meanwhile, Pakistan also took a step towards the semifinals with a solid win over New Zealand. The Group 2 standings after the recent fixtures have set up an enticing contest between India and Pakistan on Sunday. Pakistan proved they are a force to be reckoned with at the ICC Under-19 Menâs Cricket World Cup with a comprehensive eight-wicket win over New Zealand. In a dominant all-round display, Pakistan chased down a modest target of 111 inside 17.1 overs. The big win kept Pakistan in the hunt for a semi-final spot. Though they are currently third in the standings, behind England and India, they have notched a healthy net run rate of +1.484, which may come in handy if thereâs a logjam at the top of the table. Electing to field first, Pakistan pacers made the most of the seaming conditions at the Harare Sports Club. Ali Raza got the ball rolling as he trapped Marco Alpe's leg before the wicket. While Raza claimed three wickets for 36 runs in seven overs, Abdul Subhan produced a match-winning spell of 4/11 from his quota of 6.3 overs. For New Zealand, opener Hugo Bogue notched the highest score - a quickfire innings of 36, which included six fours and two maximums. However, the Pakistan bowling attack ensured that the Black Caps didn't have any partnerships going. In the second innings, rising star Sameer Minhas led the chase with a second straight half-century in the competition. Minhas scored an unbeaten 76 and took Pakistan over the finish line with an emphatic six down the ground. India rode on a splendid century from Vihaan Malhotra to register a whopping 204-run victory over Zimbabwe to reclaim their top spot in Group 2 standings. After being asked to bat first, Indian openers Aaron George and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stitched together a quick-fire 44-run opening stand. George's departure didn't deter Sooryavanshi as he continued with the onslaught to bring up his half-century. Zimbabwe clawed back some initiative, sending the 14-year-old and Vedant Trivedi back in the hut within the space of five overs. Malhotra and Abhigyan Kundu then settled into a fine batting rhythm to steer India clear of any potential danger. The former fired India's first century at the tournament, while Kundu's 61 off 62 deliveries set India on the course for a big score. Khilan A. Patel's 12-ball 30 added to the late fireworks as India finished with 352/8 from their 50 overs. Chasing a daunting total, Zimbabwe lost their openers, Nathaniel Hlabangana, Dhruv Patel, and Brendon Senzere early in the chase. Kian Blignaut and Leeroy Chiwaula attempted to rebuild the Zimbabwean innings, with the latter also bringing up a resilient half-century. But Ayush Mhatre and Udhav Mohan snapped up three wickets each, helping India curtail the Zimbabwe challenge to 148 after a lower-order collapse. The victory means only three teams from Group 2, India, England, and Pakistan, remain in the hunt for the semi-finals spots, with a huge bearing on Sunday's blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan. (IANS)
New Delhi, Jan 26: Indian womenâs team captain Harmanpreet Kaur described her Padma Shri honour as a âvery big momentâ in her career. Kaur was announced as a Padma Shri awardee on Sunday, joining eight other current and former sportspersons on the 2026 Padma Awards list. Kaur also revealed that her father was the first to receive the call from the Presidentâs House informing the family of the prestigious award, in a video shared by Mumbai Indians on social media. âMy dad got a call from the Presidentâs House that this year I am going to receive the Padma Shri Award. So I think itâs a very big moment for me, and I am happy that, before me, my parents got to know," Kaur said in a video posted by Mumbai Indians on Instagram Former India captain, Rohit Sharma too was named in the list of Padma Shri awardee. Rohit, known for his leadership and impressive run, has scored runs at highest level and led India to second T20 World Cup trophy in 2024, along with ICC Champions Trophy triumph in 2025. Congratulating him, Kaur said, "Many, many congratulations to him as well â we have seen how hard he has been working, and I think itâs a great moment for him. From the moment I started playing cricket, I have dreamed of winning the World Cup, the Arjuna Award, and then the Padma Shri. This is a very big achievement for me.â The list of honored sports figures included Savita Punia, the goalkeeper of the Indian womenâs hockey team, whose consistency and leadership have helped India regain its place on the international stage. Baldev Singh, Bhagwandas Raikwar, and K Pajanivel also received the Padma Shri for their achievements in sports. The Padma Awards are among Indiaâs highest civilian honors and celebrate excellence and service in various fields. With honorees from cricket, tennis, and hockey this year, the 2026 awards showcased the growing strength and influence of Indian sports on the global stage. (IANS)
Vadodara, Jan 21: After leading her team, Delhi Capitals, to the second victory of Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 with a commanding half-century, captain Jemimah Rodrigues praised Marizanne Kapp's outstanding Power-play spell that set the tone for their victory over Mumbai Indians. Delhi built a strong foundation with the ball, led by an impressive performance from Marizanne Kapp. Kapp was exceptional at the start, bowling 16 dot balls. She gave away just eight runs in her four overs and did not allow a single boundary. Her control, alongside Nandani Sharma, left Mumbai struggling at 23/2 during the Powerplay, with Sajana (9) and Hayley Matthews (12) getting out early. "Today was a very important game for us. I want to share this award with Kappy (Marizanne Kapp). I even asked if I could do that. The way she bowled in the Power-play got us into the game. It was one of the best spells she ever bowled. She is a legend of the game, but she still wants to become better," said Rodrigues after the match. On the bowling side for Delhi, N. Sree Charani stood out. She took three wickets for 33 runs, including two wickets in the 18th over, to help keep the Mumbai team to a low score of 154/5. Kapp provided assistance with a 1-wicket for 8 runs effort to keep the Mumbai total to below expectations. After a perfect start to the chase from Lizelle Lee and Shafali Verma, Rodrigues 51 off 37 deliveries was key to Delhi's win. She added a quick 31 runs off mere 17 deliveries, partnering with Kapp, which came mostly in doubles. She said that sharp running between the wickets and giving herself time early were central to building the innings on a challenging surface. "Even when she came in, I thought what set our partnership was the running between the wickets. I think I have had a few conversations with the few people I trust. They have all told me to take some time initially. I have played a lot on pitches like this. So it is about getting through the first 10 balls. So I know if I do that, batting becomes easy." Earlier, after suffering early jolts, the Mumbai Indians were able to create stability through their known strengths Nat Sciver-Brunt showed her loyalty once again by being a key part of the Mumbai innings with an unbeaten 65 runs from 45 deliveries, while the captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, provided a solid performance with a score of 41. They both added 78 runs, which was the key to Mumbai's respectable total. Rodrigues felt anything under 160 was chaseable, provided partnerships were stitched together, and added that she drew lessons from Nat Sciver-Brunt and Harmanpreet Kaurâs approach while batting. "We knew that anything under 160 was a fighting score. But we would need partnerships. I learnt a little bit from Nat (Sciver-Brunt) and Harmanpreet Kaur) too, from the way they played (tonight)." (IANS)
Jammu, Jan 18: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma Sunday said that the remarkable achievements of Jammu and Kashmirâs youth are a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through fair opportunities, modern infrastructure and unwavering government support. Addressing the gathering during the SRIJAN initiative conference, the Minister stated that the success of young athletes clearly demonstrates that with the right ecosystem in place, the UT youth are capable of overcoming every challenge and competing confidently at national and international platforms. Highlighting the core focus areas of the SRIJAN programme, Satish Sharma said "the initiative is playing a transformative role in strengthening the sports landscape of the Union Territory by expanding grassroots sports infrastructure across Jammu, Kashmir and other regions. This is being done by ensuring transparent, merit-based selections free from any bias; integrating sports with education and skill development; promoting greater participation of girls and enhancing inclusivity and establishing sports as a dignified and sustainable career option with viable livelihood opportunities, he said0. He reaffirmed the governmentâs firm commitment and said that sustained efforts were underway to create international-standard sports facilities, including modern cricket stadiums in Jammu and Srinagar. He also highlighted the strengthening of Khelo India Centres, promotion of traditional sports such as Dangal and enhanced collaboration with the Union Ministry to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a national sports hub. âAs Sports Minister, I assure our athletes that the government stands firmly with them. Our focus is not only on infrastructure creation but also on nurturing talent, discipline and confidence among the youth,â he said. The Minister lauded the determination, resilience and dedication of young sportspersons, describing them as the living legacy of the SRIJAN mission. He urged them to continue training with passion, remain disciplined and dream fearlessly, assuring them of full institutional support at every step of their journey. Satish Sharma expressed hope that the conference would serve as the foundation of a new era where every talented child, from the mountains of Kashmir to the plains of Jammu, is provided an equal opportunity to shine on the global stage. He concluded by reiterating the governmentâs resolve to make sports a powerful vehicle for youth empowerment, social inclusion and regional pride in Jammu and Kashmir. Director General, Youth Services and Sports, Anuradha Gupta and prominent persons from different fields and states along with senior officers of the Youth Services and Sports Department, were also present on the occasion.
New Delhi, Jan 17: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has questioned the Ashes selection calls, saying he is still unable to understand why Josh Inglis was preferred over Beau Webster during the series. Despite making an impressive start to his Test career, including a match-winning performance on debut during last yearâs Border-Gavaskar Trophy finale, Webster was left out of Australiaâs starting XI for Novemberâs Ashes opener in Perth, with fellow all-rounder Cameron Green taking his spot at No. 6. The 32-year-old was also sidelined for the following two Tests in Brisbane and Adelaide, with national selectors instead calling up reserve wicketkeeper Inglis, who posted scores of 23, 32 and 10 batting at No. 7. Webster finally got a chance during the New Yearâs Ashes Test at the SCG, where he scored an unbeaten 71 and took three wickets with his part-time off spin. âAt the start I was surprised they went with Inglis ahead of Beau. With the selectors, I know they look very deeply into data with these things. There must have been something there; a metric and Inglis must have better numbers. But I canât figure out how they did that, to be honest," Ponting told SEN Tassie. Ponting suggested the decision was puzzling, especially given Websterâs form and ability to offer greater balance to the side, and felt the selectors missed an opportunity by overlooking him throughout the Ashes. âI was surprised, but every time I see Beau play, he just continues to put forward a case as to why he should be in the side. Now we know an opportunity has come up at No. 5 with Usman Khawaja not there. I canât see any world in which Travis Head doesnât continue as opener, so maybe itâs Beauâs chance to grab that No. 5 spot. âHe may not be the flashiest or the most stylish, but heâs a gamer. He knows what has to happen in situations, ball or field. It will be hard to leave him out going forward," Ponting added. Last week, Webster had confessed he was âdisappointedâ to miss selection for the first four Tests of the Ashes campaign. (IANS)
Srinagar, Jan 8: Contractual faculty members working in government degree colleges of Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) have expressed strong resentment over what they term as a glaring disparity in salaries, demanding revision of their pay in line with University Grants Commission (UGC) norms and regularisation of their services. The faculty, many of whom hold PhDs and are qualified through NET, SET and JRF, said they have been denied UGC-recommended pay scales despite discharging academic responsibilities equivalent to their regular counterparts. âHundreds of highly qualified scholars have been pushed into silent suffering. For years, we have been assured that our pay revision is under consideration, but nothing has materialised so far,â said Dr Ishfaq Gowhar, a contractual faculty member. Earlier, Director Colleges J&K had acknowledged the legitimacy of the facultyâs demand, stating that while the issue was genuine, its implementation involved significant financial implications due to the large number of contractual appointments. âWe are aware that they deserve salary enhancement, but the number of contractual faculty is huge and it has financial implications,â he earlier said. Dr Gowhar pointed out that contractual lecturers, who form the backbone of the higher education system, continue to work on a fixed monthly honorarium of Rs 28,000, which has remained unchanged for nearly a decade. âThe irony is that a Class IV employee with a Class 10 qualification draws a salary exceeding Rs 50,000, while doctorate-holding teachers engaged in teaching, mentoring and academic research are paid a fraction of that,â he said. He added that institutions such as SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have implemented revised UGC pay scales, but the Higher Education Department has failed to extend similar treatment to its contractual faculty. Dr Gowhar said the demand for âequal work, equal payâ gets prominently featured in election campaigns, raising hopes among contractual teachers. âPromises were made and slogans echoed during elections, but once the process ended, our voices were reduced to silence. Even meeting officials now feels impossible,â he said. He said contractual faculty were not seeking privileges but dignity, fairness and recognition for their service. The faculty appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Education Minister to intervene and take concrete steps towards addressing their long-pending demands. âThis issue is not merely about salaries. It is about survival, justice and dignity in the classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir,â he said.
Srinagar, Jan 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) will declare the result of class 10th and 12th examination on January 14 of, 2026 (Wednesday), minister for education Sakina Itoo said on Monday. Minister for education Sakina Itoo said the government has decided to declare the result of both the classes-10th and 12th on the same day. "We understand that students have been waiting for the results. So we decided that result of both the classes will be declared on Wednesday (January 16 of 2926)," Sakina Itoo said. She said the meeting of the Result Declaration Committee (RDC) will be convened by the Secretary JKBOE along with the members-Director School Education (DSE) Kashmir and Jammu division besides the joint secretaries as well. "We will give the administrative approval to the result instead of getting approved by the chairman," she said. The announcement comes amid the delay in appointment of chairman JKBOSE as the position is lying vacant for the last one year. "After declaration of the results, we will also appoint the permanent chairman for JKBOSE as well," education minister said. An official from JKBOSE said the class 1oth result will be declared on Wednesday morning followed by the declaration of result of class 12th students in late afternoon on the same day. As per the official figures, 94783 students- 68804 from Kashmir and 25,224 students from winter zone areas of Jammu division besides 660 students from Kargil and 95 from Leh district registered for the class 10th JKBOSE examination this year. Also, the examination for class 11th and 12th students was scheduled from November 19 and November 8 of 2025 respectively. Approximately, 81622 students â 64001 from Jammu and 17621 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 11th examination while 70117 studentsâ56423 from Kashmir and 13694 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 12th examination.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmirâs Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). âAbout a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,â he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.âIf we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,â he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeebâs research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. âIn this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,â he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. âIt is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,â he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,â he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. âMy parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,â he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. âJust as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.â âYoung people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,â he further added.
Calls for strong academic ecosystem Srinagar, March 6: President of the Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK), Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam Friday extended his heartfelt congratulations to the 17 candidates from J&K and Ladakh who successfully cleared the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) examination. He termed the achievement as a moment of immense pride for the region and a powerful inspiration for the youth. He said that success of these candidates reflect the immense talent, determination, and intellectual potential present among the students of the region. Nazrul Islam Baba emphasised that educational institutions must work collectively to create a robust academic ecosystem that encourages students to aspire for and excel in national-level competitive examinations like the IAS. He stressed that schools should nurture curiosity, discipline, analytical thinking, and leadership qualities from the early stages of education. âSuch remarkable achievements demonstrate that our youth possess the capability to compete at the highest national platforms," he said. He said a supportive academic environment, mentorship, and access to quality resources need to be kept available so that more students from J&K and Ladakh can prepare for and succeed in prestigious examinations. PSAJK President further highlighted the need to develop benchmark institutions and academic support systems in the region that can guide and mentor students aspiring for civil services and other competitive examinations. "Creating a culture of excellence and competition within educational institutions will help channelize the talent of the youth towards nation-building roles," he said. He urged educators, parents, and policymakers to work in synergy to foster an environment where students feel motivated to pursue ambitious goals and contribute meaningfully to society. âEvery success story from our region becomes a beacon of hope for thousands of young minds. These achievers have shown that with perseverance, dedication, and proper guidance, no dream is beyond reach. Their journey should inspire our students to believe in their abilities and strive for excellence,â he added. PSAJK expressed hope that this achievement will ignite a new wave of aspiration among students across schools in J&K and Ladakh, motivating them to prepare for the countryâs most competitive examinations and play a vital role in shaping the future of the nation.
'Results likely to get delayed in absence of Chairman' Jammu, Jan 7: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) on Wednesday said the result of the class 10th examinations will be declared soon after the appointment of the Chairman of the Board. The statement comes amid the uncertainty about the declaration of the results by JKBOSE. In an official handout issued here, JKBOSE has advised students not to pay heed to fake links and websites announcing declaration of class 10 results. "Result of class 10th will be declared within few days soon after the appointment of new Chairman," the statement reads. The JKBOSE has stated that the results of annual examination of class 10 of Kashmir valley and winter zone areas of Jammu Division are almost ready. "But its approval by Result Declaration Committee headed by BOSE Chairman is a pre- requisite before its declaration. In absence of the Chairman the results are likely to get a little delayed," it reads. The JKBOSE officials have advised the students to wait for the formal declaration on the official website of the Board- www.jkbose.nic.in. "Students should not get misled by scamesters and fake narratives circulated by some mischievous elements, whose sole aim is to create confusion in the innocent student community," the statement reads.
