Framework to incentivise youths pursuing career in sports

A new framework that envisages incentives for youths pursuing a career in sports would be soon put in place, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said.
"I promise a new framework that envisages incentives for youths who pursue a career in sports. We will start with schools and colleges which are ideal places to instil a sporting culture, and identify raw talent for further grooming," Sayeed said here.
Chairing the 55th meeting of the J-K Sports Council at Civil Secretariat, the chief minister urged youth to explore the ever-growing world of sports.
"I vow to nurture talent and rekindle the desire amongst our youth and children for excelling in sports, which is one of the most highly-paid professions in the world," he said.

Asking the sports administration to motivate youth, Sayeed, who is also the President of the J-K Sports Council, said the new generation seems more inclined towards watching rather than playing sports.
"Healthy mind stays in a healthy body. We need to reverse the trend lest our youth will end up becoming couch potatoes," he said.

The chief minister stressed upon a new competitive framework which focuses on creation of quality infrastructure in schools and colleges in the first instance.
"A talented youth needs a good coach and support from his family and government to prove his mettle, both at national and international levels. We should set our eyes on the National Games to improve our scores and then aim higher," he said, highlighting the need for taking extra-curricular activities in schools and colleges beyond rituals and symbolism.

The government recently reconstituted the State Sports Council by nominating 29 members who have excelled in the field of sports.