September 2, 2025

In a lively Sunday speech, PM Narendra Modi threw the spotlight on two spectacular sports milestones in Jammu & Kashmir, revealing a fresh, exciting side of the region! For the very first time, Pulwama hosted a thrilling day-night cricket match that brought a record crowd under bright floodlights, something believed previously impossible. "In a stadium in Pulwama, a record number of people gathered. Here, Pulwama's first day-night cricket match was played. Earlier, this was considered impossible. But now my country is changing," declared Modi, celebrating the vibrant energy pulsing through the Valley. Meanwhile, the sparkling waters of Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake transformed into a battleground of champions during the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival. Over 800 athletes from all across India dove into action, paddling fast and furious for glory. Madhya Pradesh snatched the top spot in the medals tally, followed closely by Haryana and Odisha. One shining star of the festival was Mohsin Ali from Srinagar, who bagged gold in the 1,000 metre kayaking race. In a heartwarming chat featured on Modi's popular 'Mann Ki Baat' show, Mohsin revealed, "My dream is to win an Olympic medal." He fondly recalled how watching boats glide on Dal Lake as a child fired his passion for water sports. Praising Mohsin’s grit and dreams, PM Modi remarked, "The young people of J&K have the strength to make the nation proud. Mohsin has shown that even the son of a labourer can dream of the Olympics - and achieve it through dedication." The Prime Minister also praised the warm welcome and 'cordiality' of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, delivering the catchy mantra: "Jo khelta hai, woh khilta hai (those who play, bloom). The more tournaments our country plays, the more it prospers." Switching gears, Modi touched on recent natural disasters in India—from cloudbursts to heavy rains—calling them tests for the nation. He showered praise on security forces for heroic rescue efforts and on everyone who helped keep humanity alive and kicking during tough times. Finally, Modi spotlighted the new UPSC initiative, Pratibha Setu, a helpful digital platform listing over 10,000 talented youngsters who narrowly missed selection for UPSC jobs. This portal opens doors for Public Sector Undertakings and private companies to hire bright candidates. "There are thousands of capable candidates, whose hardwork is no less than others, but they were unable to reach the final list by a small margin," he said. "Pratibha Setu has been created for such sincere students," With these booming sports events and smart talent solutions, J&K’s new chapter shines bright, promising a future packed with dreams, achievements, and endless energy!

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Tags: Jammu kashmir, Pulwama cricket, Khelo india water sports festival, Dal lake, Mohsin ali, Pratibha setu,