Jammu: District Jammu emerged as the overall champion in both men’s and women’s categories at the 20th J&K UT Fencing Championship 2025–26, which concluded at the Indoor Fencing Stadium, M.A. Stadium, Jammu.
The three-day championship was organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Fencing Association, affiliated with the Fencing Association of India, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council. The event witnessed participation of over 400 fencers from 17 districts of the Union Territory, including Jammu, Udhampur, Kathua, Samba, Ramban, Doda, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Srinagar, Pulwama, Anantnag, Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and Budgam.
Competitions were held across all three fencing disciplines—Épée, Foil and Sabre—covering multiple age categories, including Under-10 (Mini), Under-12 (Child), Under-14 (Sub-Junior), Under-17 (Cadet), Under-20 (Junior) and Senior, providing a competitive platform for athletes at various stages.
The championship featured participation of several international-level fencers, including Sufyan Waheed Sohil, Harshit Kohli, Ajay Kumar, Kritarthi Kotwal, Riya Bakshi and Subhanaya Sharma, whose presence enhanced the level of competition and inspired young participants.
Commissioner Secretary Youth Services and Sports, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, who was the chief guest, appreciated the efforts of the organisers in successfully conducting the championship on such a large scale. He highlighted the importance of sports in youth development and assured continued support for strengthening sports infrastructure and nurturing talent in the Union Territory.
Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, the special guest, said the participation from all 17 districts reflects the growing reach of fencing across J&K and reiterated the Council’s commitment to promoting sports at the grassroots level and ensuring equal opportunities for athletes.
Rajiv Sharma, a former member of the J&K Sports Council, was the guest of honour on the occasion.
In her welcome address, Secretary General JKFA Supriya Chouhan stressed the importance of adopting sports as a way of life and highlighted its role in personality development and addressing social challenges.
International referee Rashid Ahmed Choudhary, along with Maninder Pal Singh and Adarsh, also encouraged the athletes to strive for excellence.
The successful conduct of the championship underscores the growing sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir and reflects the collective efforts of stakeholders in promoting fencing across the Union Territory.
