Omar Abdullah on Wednesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art multi-purpose indoor sports complex at Government Degree College (GDC) Tangmarg, developed at a cost of ₹2.75 crore under the CAPEX budget, reinforcing the government’s focus on strengthening sports infrastructure and youth engagement across the Union Territory.
The modern indoor facility is equipped with dedicated spaces for badminton, table tennis, carrom and billiards, aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports throughout the year, especially during harsh weather conditions in the region.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister for Education Sakina Itoo, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, along with legislators and senior officials from the administration.
Following the inauguration, Omar Abdullah interacted with students and participated in indoor games including badminton, table tennis and billiards, drawing enthusiastic response from the college community.
On the occasion, he also launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan signature campaign at the college, urging youth to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that youth are central to the future development of Jammu and Kashmir, stressing the need to prepare them for upcoming challenges and opportunities.
He highlighted concerns over students pursuing higher education outside the region, stating that families collectively spend nearly ₹1,000–₹1,200 crore annually on tuition fees alone, excluding living and travel expenses.
Omar Abdullah said the government has already approved a framework to allow establishment of private universities in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that reputed institutions will be invited once regulations are finalized. He remarked that regions like Tangmarg, with natural beauty and conducive environment, can emerge as education hubs attracting students from across the country.
He also recalled the initiation of the GDC Tangmarg project in 2011 during his earlier tenure and expressed satisfaction over its completion and expansion of infrastructure.
The Chief Minister said indoor sports facilities are essential for regions with long winters, ensuring continuous engagement of youth in physical activities.
He further outlined government initiatives including employment generation, women’s free travel in government buses, and Mission Yuva-based self-employment support, stating that 20,000–25,000 government jobs are targeted this year along with easier access to entrepreneurial loans.
Later, he inaugurated a new block of Primary Health Centre (PHC) Gulmarg, constructed at a cost of ₹203.80 lakh under CAPEX. He inspected various sections including OPD, emergency services, pharmacy, X-ray unit and wards, reviewing healthcare delivery for locals and tourists.
