JAMMU: Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, today felicitated Jammu and Kashmir’s outstanding athletes who exhibited a historic performance at the Khelo India Beach Games 2026.
The promising players have brought laurels to the Union Territory with two gold, two silver and one bronze medal and clinching the prestigious Overall Men’s Championship Trophy in Pencak Silat.
Congratulating the medal winners, the Minister said that the achievement marks a landmark moment in J&K’s sporting journey, as it is the first time any northern state has emerged Overall Men’s Champion in coastal combat sports. This reflects the growing strength and diversity of the region’s sporting ecosystem.
The athletes showcased exceptional grit and technical excellence across various beach disciplines, particularly in Pencak Silat, where Jammu and Kashmir dominated the men’s category to secure the overall championship title against strong competition from coastal and traditional sporting states.
Satish Sharma lauded the athletes, coaches and support staff for their dedication and resilience. He stated that their performance is a powerful testament to the success of sports promotion initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir under the Youth Services & Sports Department. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards strengthening training infrastructure, exposure opportunities and athlete welfare.
“The achievements of our young sportspersons on the national stage send a strong message that Jammu and Kashmir is fast emerging as a sporting powerhouse. Their success will inspire countless youngsters to pursue sports with confidence and ambition,” maintained the Minister.
During the felicitation ceremony, the medal winners were honoured for their discipline, determination and outstanding contribution to J&K’s sporting prestige. The Minister encouraged them to continue striving for excellence and assured full support from the government in their future endeavours.
The Khelo India Beach Games 2026 brought together top athletes from across the country in a celebration of beach and coastal sports, making Jammu and Kashmir’s triumph even more remarkable.