Srinagar, Mar 30 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy victory as a “historic” achievement during the 132nd episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat.
In his address, the Prime Minister said the past month had been “full of excitement and enthusiasm” for cricket fans, highlighting India’s T20 World Cup triumph along with J&K’s landmark domestic success.
He noted that the J&K team clinched its first-ever Ranji Trophy title after nearly seven decades, describing it as a moment of immense pride. Referring to the triumph, Modi said the team’s long wait had finally ended with a historic win.
The Prime Minister credited the achievement to years of sustained effort by players and support staff, praising captain Paras Dogra for his leadership. He also lauded young Kashmiri bowler Aaqib Nabi, whose 60-wicket performance has drawn nationwide attention.
He said the victory has boosted sporting enthusiasm among the youth of J&K and expressed hope that it would inspire more youngsters to take up sports. He also noted that the region is emerging as a hub for major sporting events, citing the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg and the growing popularity of football among local youth.
Local cricketers in Baramulla welcomed the Prime Minister’s remarks, calling them a morale booster, while stressing the need for better sports infrastructure in the region.
Meanwhile, during the broadcast, Modi also urged citizens to remain united in the face of the ongoing conflict in West Asia, cautioning against rumours and politicisation of the issue. He appealed to people to rely only on official information and emphasised collective responsibility during challenging times.
The Prime Minister further called on citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles by reducing sugar intake and cutting cooking oil consumption by 10 per cent. He reiterated the importance of fitness and highlighted initiatives such as the Gyan Bharatam Survey for preserving manuscripts, water conservation campaigns like Jal Sanchay Abhiyan, and the rooftop solar scheme under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. (Agency)
