Gulmarg: Jammu and Kashmir Sports Minister Satish Sharma on Sunday said that the era of terrorism has ended and the coming century belongs to India and its youth.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the inaugural function of the 6th edition of the Khelo India Games at Gulmarg, Sharma, according Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said everything has an expiry and terrorism too has seen its end.
“Everything has an expiry and the era of terrorism has ended. The coming time belongs to India and India will lead from the front,” he said, adding that the large participation of youth in sporting events reflects a new and confident Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the scale of the 6th edition of Khelo-India winter games, the Minister said more than 500 to 600 athletes from different parts of the country have arrived in Gulmarg to participate in the prestigious games. He said the overwhelming response is a clear sign that peace and normalcy have returned to the Union Territory.
Referring to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Sharma said that “Omar Sahib went to all parts of the country to promote tourism. Today people are coming from everywhere and we are not even getting rooms,” he remarked, pointing towards the heavy tourist rush in the Valley.
From the famous ski resort of Gulmarg, the minister said he wanted to send a message of love and peace to everyone, including neighbouring countries. “We represent tourism, they represent terrorism. We want to tell them that they need to mend their ways,” he said.
Recalling the challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir, Sharma said 2025 had been a difficult year for Jammu and Kashmir. “In 2025, we saw war, the Pahalgam terror attack and nature’s fury as well. It was a tough year for J&K,” he said, adding that in the past few months the government has worked hard to get back on its feet.
He urged people from across the country to visit Jammu and Kashmir without fear. “My message to all countrymen is that they should come to J&K. I assure them they will not face any problems. This time we are going to create a record,” he said.
In a lighter vein, Sharma said he prefers to interact directly with the people. “Usually ministers don’t behave like this, but I behave like a sarpanch as I am their sewak. It is the direction of my leader Omar Abdullah Sahib,” he added.
The Sports Minister also expressed hope that Jammu and Kashmir’s cricket team would emerge victorious in the Ranji Trophy final. “We should pray that we win the Ranji finals. It is for the first time we have entered into the finals,” he said.
Calling for responsible journalism, Sharma said the region needs unbiased and good media, adding that the Chief Minister has envisioned several initiatives for the welfare of journalists as well. (KNO)
