The recently held 2nd Kashmir Marathon 2025 in Srinagar was a significant public event that brought together thousands of participants from across India and abroad. While the turnout and enthusiasm were noteworthy, the marathon also offers an opportunity to reflect on the broader state of sports infrastructure, youth engagement and policy direction in Jammu and Kashmir.
Events like this marathon can serve as catalysts for promoting a culture of fitness and discipline, especially among the youth. In a region where access to structured sports programs remains uneven, such platforms can help normalize physical activity as part of daily life. However, the challenge lies in translating one-day enthusiasm into long-term engagement. Without consistent investment in grassroots sports, training facilities and coaching, the momentum generated by such events risks fading quickly.
The current sports infrastructure in the J&K is far from adequate. Many districts lack basic amenities such as running tracks, gymnasiums and physiotherapy support. Even in urban centres like Srinagar and Jammu, access to quality training spaces is limited. For athletes to thrive, there must be a sustained effort to upgrade existing facilities and build new ones that are accessible, inclusive and professionally managed.
Moreover, the absence of a comprehensive sports policy tailored to the region’s unique geography and socio-political context continues to hinder progress. A well-defined framework is needed; one that not only supports elite athletes but also encourages participation at the school and community levels. This includes integrating sports into educational curricula, incentivizing local clubs and ensuring that rural areas are not left behind in the major development process.
Another area that demands attention is talent identification and nurturing. While events like marathons can help discover potential, there needs to be a system in place to track, mentor and support promising athletes. This includes providing scholarships, access to competitions and exposure to national and international standards. Without such mechanisms, many capable individuals may never get the opportunity to realize their potential.
The economic and tourism potential of sports events in Kashmir is also worth considering. With its natural beauty and improving connectivity, the region is well-positioned to host national and international sporting events. However, this requires careful planning, logistical preparedness and a focus on sustainability. Sports tourism can contribute to the local economy, but only if it is backed by infrastructure and policy coherence.
Security and political stability remain concerns that can affect the continuity and scale of such events. Organizers must work closely with local communities to ensure that sports are seen as inclusive and apolitical spaces. Transparency in planning, equitable access and community involvement are essential to building trust and long-term participation.
Finally, documentation of such events should go beyond ceremonial reporting. There is a need for critical engagement with the outcomes, challenges and lessons learned. This includes tracking the impact on local communities, evaluating logistic execution and identifying areas for improvement.
Kashmir Marathon, while a commendable initiative, should not be viewed in isolation. It must be part of a larger, sustained strategy to promote sports as a tool for development, inclusion and empowerment. The real success of such events will be measured not by the number of participants or dignitaries present, but by the long-term changes they inspire in policy, infrastructure and public mindset.