Srinagar, Sep 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Government said it is promoting sports to engage youth constructively and raise awareness about drug abuse, with financial assistance, coaching programmes, and sports activities being organised across the Union Territory.
In a written reply to a question tabled by senior Congress leader and MLA Tariq Hamid Karra in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, the Youth Services and Sports Department said it is organising competitions, training camps and awareness programmes to encourage young people to take part in sports.
The department said annual sports calendars of recognised Sports Associations are approved by the competent authority, with financial support provided for district-level competitions and UT championships. Regular coaching and training programmes are also conducted through departmental coaches and Khelo India coaches.
Under the Nash Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the department has engaged lakhs of youth in awareness activities, including rallies, cyclothons, yoga and sports-based campaigns.
The government said these activities aim to spread awareness about drug abuse prevention and promote sports at the grassroots level.
On financial assistance to athletes, the government said recognised Sports Associations receive support for approved sporting activities.
Under the prescribed rates, eligible players and officials are provided Rs 300 per head per day as journey allowance, Rs 300 for food, Rs 150 for refreshments and Rs 500 for lodging during approved activities within J&K. Transport assistance is also provided as per the SRTC tariff.
At the UT level, the department provides food allowance of Rs 200 per head per day and accommodation charges of Rs 75 per head per day, along with transport assistance through B-class buses.
The government further said financial assistance is provided to sportspersons through scholarships, including Rs 1,750 for participation and Rs 10,000 for medal winners at the National level. It said these measures are intended to reduce the financial burden on athletes and support their continued participation in sports.
On the procurement and distribution of sports equipment, the department said equipment had been procured during the previous and current years, and distribution was underway.
It denied any shortage or delay in procurement and distribution, saying purchases are made based on the requirements of coaches and athletes, subject to availability of funds.
The department also said sports equipment is being procured for government-recognised educational institutions up to Class 12. Funds are released to district offices for procurement and distribution among schools based on assessed requirements and available resources.
