Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 29: The 7th Annual General Body Meeting of the Jammu and Kashmir Association of Rowing and Sculling (JKARS) was held today in Srinagar, gathering athletes, officials and stakeholders in a passionate call to uplift water sports in the region.
As per the press statement issued, the Presiding over the meeting, Dr Burhan Bazzaz, President of JKARS, welcomed attendees and praised Bilquis Mir on her historic appointment as the first Indian jury member on the Olympic panel. “This is a victory not just for Jammu and Kashmir, but the whole nation,” Dr. Bazzaz stated, calling for collaboration with the Government to take water sports to the global stage.
Guest of Honour B. S. Ahluwalia applauded the region’s natural suitability for water sports. “Kashmir is a paradise for water sports. The potential is immense, but it needs timely support from the Government,” he said.
Bilquis Mir, an international medallist, stressed the need for structured investment. “We’re not asking for favours-just a fair chance. With proper boats, events and training, we can build a legacy,” she urged.
Shafqat Watali, President of the J&K Canoeing and Kayaking Association (JKCKA), along with Imran Ahmad, Vice President (JKCKA), highlighted the region’s rich talent and need for resources. Latief Ahmad, CEO of Colour Curve, emphasized public-private partnerships. Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer at Kashmir University, linked water sports to tourism growth. Young medal-winning athletes expressed pride and concern, urging LG Manoj Sinha and Omar Abdullah for support. A resolution was passed to launch grassroots initiatives and district-level competitions.
Dr. Bazzaz concluded with a vote of thanks, especially acknowledging Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya for his unwavering support of the event and the water sports community.
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