Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council Highlights Positive Shift in Youth Sports Participation

The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council Secretary, Nuzhat Gul, has noted a significant increase in children's participation in sports, largely due to growing parental support. She emphasized that infrastructure alone won't suffice; parents must recognize the role of sports in keeping children away from negative influences. Additionally, eight-year-old Gurnoor Kaur has made headlines as the youngest Taekwondo black belt holder in the region, showcasing the potential of young athletes. This article explores these developments and the ongoing preparations for international sporting events.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2026, 22:37 IST

Encouraging Trends in Youth Sports

On Saturday, Nuzhat Gul, the Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, remarked on the increasing involvement of children in sports, attributing this trend to enhanced support from parents. She pointed out that previously, parental encouragement was minimal, but this perspective is now evolving positively.

Gul stressed that merely improving sports infrastructure is insufficient; a significant change will occur only when parents acknowledge the importance of sports in steering children away from drugs, sedentary lifestyles, excessive screen time, and negative influences. She also mentioned that preparations are in full swing to host international sporting events, with ongoing discussions with national federations regarding future competitions.

Young Taekwondo Prodigy Achieves Black Belt

In a remarkable achievement, eight-year-old Gurnoor Kaur has become the youngest individual to earn a Taekwondo black belt in Jammu and Kashmir. Gurnoor expressed her happiness about this milestone, attributing her success to years of dedicated practice.

"I am thrilled with this accomplishment... I have been training for four years... My goal is to become a national player and win a gold medal for my country," she shared.