Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Crowns New Champions | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is steadily emerging as a hub of sporting activity due to sustained government support, improved infrastructure and growing youth participation, Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma said on Saturday.

The Minister was speaking at the closing ceremony of the International Kushti Dangal and Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Title Championship at M.A. Stadium here, where he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, expanding grassroots participation and integrating technology and innovation to promote sporting excellence across the Union Territory.

Sharma said the increasing frequency of national and international sporting events in Jammu and Kashmir reflected the region’s rising stature on the national and global sports map and pointed to the steady evolution of its sports ecosystem. He added that the revival and promotion of traditional sports such as Kushti were essential for preserving cultural heritage while providing meaningful avenues for youth engagement, fitness and discipline.

Felicitating the winners and participants, the Minister congratulated the athletes on their performances and said the successful conduct of international-level events highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation into a vibrant sports destination.

Secretary, JK Sports Council, said the strong response from athletes and spectators underlined a thriving sports culture in the Union Territory and added that indigenous sports would continue to receive focused attention.

The President of the Indian Style Wrestling Association of JK expressed gratitude to the J&K Government and the Minister for their continued support and praised the efforts of officials, referees and volunteers for the smooth conduct of the championship.

The tournament saw participation from wrestlers across India and several foreign countries, lending an international character to the event. The highlight was the Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir title bout, in which Ishaq Ahmad clinched the coveted crown. Aamir Khan finished runner-up, followed by Diler Khan and Sadaq Gajansoo.

In other notable bouts, Dinesh Dankar defeated Tamarlan of Russia, Balu Bodake of Maharashtra overcame Khetag from Russia, and Tedo of Georgia beat Bania Min of Jammu. Hamid of Iran defeated Lucky Kohli of Punjab, Nadeem from Doda (JK) defeated Irfan of Iran, while Arjun from Jammu beat Mohammad of Iran.