The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council on Wednesday congratulated four talented athletes from the Union Territory on their selection to represent India in the 10th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship 2026 scheduled to be held in Dongnai Province, Vietnam.
The selected athletes, as per a statement include Arvinder Singh (Senior Male, 85–90 kg category), Sofi Sharmeen (Senior Female, 60–65 kg category), Shahid Hilal (Senior Male, 60–65 kg category), and Raja Mahir Khan (Senior Male, Open 2 category).
Minister for Youth Services and Sports Jammu and Kashmir, Satish Sharma, congratulated the athletes on their remarkable achievement and said their selection for the prestigious championship reflects the immense sporting talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir.
“These athletes have made the entire Union Territory proud through their dedication and hard work. Their achievement is an inspiration for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, and I am confident they will perform exceptionally,” the Minister said.
Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services and Sports Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary (IAS), also extended his congratulations to the athletes and appreciated the efforts of coaches, trainers, and the Sports Council in nurturing sporting talent in the region.
“The consistent performances of our athletes at national and international platforms demonstrate the positive transformation taking place in the sports ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir. The government remains committed to providing every possible support and opportunity to young sportspersons to excel at the highest level,” he said.
In a statement issued here, the J&K Sports Council termed the achievement a proud moment for the entire sporting fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the selection of four athletes for a prestigious continental championship reflects the growing standard of martial arts and combat sports in the Union Territory.
The Sports Council lauded the dedication, discipline, and hard work of the athletes and their coaches, expressing confidence that the players will make the country and Jammu & Kashmir proud on the international stage.
The Council reiterates its commitment towards providing better training facilities, exposure, and support to athletes in various disciplines to help them excel at national and international levels.
The J&K Sports Council wishes the athletes success in the upcoming championship and expresses hope that they will bring laurels to the nation.
