Mendhar Update

Improve sports facilities in Poonch: Dr Shazad

Jammu,02/June/2026: The Jammu and Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (BADC), a registered organisation working for the welfare of border residents and tribal communities of J&K, has called for focused attention on improving sports infrastructure in the border district of Poonch.

The organisation said that many young people in the area are being left behind due to lack of proper facilities.

Dr. Shazad Ahmed Malik, Chairman BADC and former Vice Chancellor, while welcoming the anti-drug stance of Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of J&K, said that sports play an important role in shaping the future of youth and can serve as a real push to pull young people away from drugs and towards playgrounds, arenas and green fields.

However, he pointed out that despite genuine enthusiasm among local youth, many parts of Poonch still lack proper playgrounds, sports equipment and training facilities. Several existing grounds are in poor condition and need maintenance, while many villages have no basic sports infrastructure at all.

Dr. Shazad stated that children and youth in these areas have real talent, but cannot move forward without proper exposure, coaching and facilities. He also noted that sports help build physical fitness, discipline and confidence among young people.

The former Vice Chancellor said that Poonch, given its difficult terrain and scattered population, deserves special focus when it comes to sports development. Youth living in far-flung and rural areas, he added, should get equal chances to compete at district, UT and national levels.

BADC Chairman appealed to the LG and the Chief Minister of J&K to work on improving playgrounds, setting up indoor sports facilities, organising coaching camps and making sure sports equipment reaches wherever it is needed.

Sd/-

Dr Shazad Ahmed Malik,Chairman, JK-BADC & former VC. Mob: 8899772220.