J&K Gets First National Centre Of Excellence; Nuzhat Gull Thanks PM Modi

Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council Secretary Nuzhat Gull has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Central Government approved the Union Territory’s first-ever National Centre of Excellence (NCOE), describing it as a landmark step towards strengthening professional sports in the region.

Welcoming the decision, Nuzhat Gull said the NCOE would significantly enhance athlete development by providing world-class coaching, scientific training and improved infrastructure.

Nuzhat Gull added that the Sports Council aims to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a leading sporting destination, not only in winter sports but across multiple disciplines through structured grassroots programmes and international exposure. She said sports should play a greater role in social and economic development by generating employment, promoting tourism and offering meaningful opportunities for young people.

According to Nuzhat Gull, athletes from the Union Territory are no longer just participating in competitions but are consistently winning medals at national and international levels.

Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Nuzhat Gull said the approval of Jammu and Kashmir’s first National Centre of Excellence would greatly strengthen professional sports across the Union Territory and help nurture future champions.

Since taking charge as Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council in 2021, Gull has focused on expanding sports infrastructure, increasing grassroots participation and creating better opportunities for young athletes.

Under her leadership, coaching programmes expanded to rural areas, while sports infrastructure and Khelo India centres were upgraded across Jammu and Kashmir.

As the first woman to lead the Sports Council, Nuzhat Gull also promoted greater participation of women in sports.

The Union Territory has since successfully hosted major sporting events, including the Khelo India Winter Games, with athletes achieving consistent success at national and international competitions.

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