From first ever Day-Night Cricket match in Pulwama to Khelo India Fest at Dal Lake, Prime Minister Narender Modi today lauded what he described as growing sports culture in the UT of J&K. PM Modi, during the 125th edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, commended Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) for attaining two significant milestones despite the recent devastation caused by floods and heavy rains.
Discussing these developments, PM Modi remarked, “Amidst the devastation caused by floods and rains, J&K has achieved two very special achievements. Not many people noticed these. But you will be happy to know about those achievements."He highlighted that Pulwama recently experienced a historic moment when a record number of spectators gathered at a stadium to watch the region’s first-ever day-night cricket match.
Highlighting the Royal Premier League (RPL), Modi said Pulwama witnessed an “unforgettable moment” when thousands of spectators, particularly youth, gathered to watch cricket under floodlights for the first time. “The enthusiasm in the stadium was extraordinary,” he remarked.For the first time in history, the district hosted the Royal Premier League, a cricket tournament played under floodlights at night, marking a new chapter of hope, peace, and progress for the region, he said adding “A record number of people gathered in a stadium in Pulwama to watch first day-night cricket match was played here. Earlier this was impossible but now my country is changing."
Hundreds of spectators gathered to witness the event, transforming the venue into a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship and unity. This district, once known for tragic incidents like the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, 2019, is now making headlines for positive developments, the PM noted. He also lauded the successful conduct of the water sports festival in Srinagar, which saw participation from more than 800 athletes across India, including women in almost equal numbers as men. Madhya Pradesh topped the medal tally, followed by Haryana and Odisha.
“Truly, what a special place to host a festival like this. Its objective is to make water sports more popular in J&K. More than 800 athletes from all over India participated in it. Women athletes were not far behind, their participation was nearly equal to men," he said.
During his address, Modi mentioned his interactions with two athletes — Rashmita Sahoo from Odisha, who has won 41 medals since 2017, and Mohsin Ali from Srinagar, who clinched gold at the festival and praised Kashmir’s hospitality towards visiting players. The Prime Minister congratulated all athletes and commended the government and people of Jammu Kashmir for hosting the events with dedication and warmth.
Follow us
