Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 9: In a landmark move to recognize and empower sportspersons, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has notified the Outstanding Sportspersons (Gazetted) Service Recruitment Rules, 2025 through S.O. 284, under the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution of India. The notification issued on 1-11-2025 by Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Youth Services & Sports Department, addresses a long-pending demand for structured employment opportunities for outstanding athletes, which had been delayed due to the absence of formal service rules.
The newly framed rules lay down a comprehensive framework for recruitment, service conditions and seniority of sportspersons in gazetted posts. The notification also includes provisions for 10 Chief Coach positions. The service will be known as the Jammu & Kashmir Youth Services and Sports Outstanding Sportspersons (Gazetted) Service, and shall come into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. Key terms such as Administrative Department, Cadre Member of the Service and Schedule are defined in the rules, while the permanent and temporary cadre strength and the nature of posts will be determined by the Government. Temporary posts may be created for specific purposes, and the cadre strength will be reviewed every five years or as required.
Recruitment will be through direct appointment, following the eligibility criteria specified under the J&K (Appointment of Outstanding Sportspersons) Rules, 2022, as amended. Selected appointees will serve a two-year probation period, with confirmation governed by the J&K Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956. Pay, allowances and seniority will be regulated as per civil service rules and reservations will follow the J&K Reservation Act, 2004. Existing Government employees may also apply for direct recruitment if eligible.
Sportspersons have expressed gratitude to Sports Minister Satish Sharma for his efforts in resolving this long-standing issue. While the notification is a significant step, the final merit list is yet to be published. Athletes, many of whom have been waiting for over 12 years despite representing the state and country, urge the authorities to release the list and complete appointments immediately, emphasizing the need to recognize their dedication, sacrifices, and achievements.
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