Srinagar ,July 29 (KNS) : Reinforcing its commitment to creating a robust and inclusive sports ecosystem, the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council today inaugurated two major capacity building initiatives, the National Softball Umpiring Clinic 2025-26 and the J&K Kabaddi Referee Level-1 Course at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening the technical and officiating framework essential for sustained sports development.
The events were formally inaugurated by Sarmad Hafeez (IAS), Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare & Youth Services and Sports, who emphasized the significance of structured technical education in sports. “A strong sports ecosystem is built not just on athletes but equally on trained officials, educated coaches, and quality infrastructure. Jammu & Kashmir is actively investing in all three pillars to ensure sustained and inclusive growth of sports across the region,” he added.
Organized by the J&K Sports Council in collaboration with the Softball Association of India, J&K Softball Association, and the J&K Amateur Kabaddi Association, the dual events have drawn participation from over 150 umpires, referees, and trainees from across India. Supported by Fucan Sports Pvt. Ltd., the National Softball Umpiring Clinic will run from July 29 to 31, with technical sessions led by experts from the national body including Dr.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelPravin Anaokar, Secretary General, Softball Association of India.
Speaking at the inauguration, Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, underlined the JKSCs strategic approach towards grassroots training and long-term capacity building. “We are creating a foundation where coaching, officiating, and infrastructure development go hand in hand. These initiatives are part of a wider roadmap to ensure every region of J&K has access to quality sports education and opportunity,” she said.
Also present on the occasion were Mrs. Nusrat Gazala, Divisional Sports Officer, Manager, Bakshi Stadium and officials of the Softball Association of India, including Mr. L.R. Maurya, Mistry, and Shakir Ahmad & Waseem Raja, Secretary, J&K Softball Association.
The Kabaddi Referee Level-1 Course, running concurrently at the same venue, is designed to train and certify new referees in one of the country’s most popular traditional sports. The program focuses on technical accuracy, ethical officiating, and enhancing professional standards at the grassroots and competitive levels.(KNS)