Jammu, March 8, 2026 : Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Sunday said the historic Ranji Trophy victory of the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team has energised the youth of the region and reflected the democratisation of opportunities that has strengthened aspiration and self-confidence among youngsters in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to the media after hosting the victorious team at his residence in Jammu, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office felicitated the players, coaching staff and officials for their outstanding campaign in India’s premier domestic cricket tournament.
He congratulated the team for bringing laurels to the Union Territory after securing their maiden Ranji Trophy title by holding eight-time champions Karnataka cricket team to a draw and gaining a 291-run first innings lead in the final played at Hubballi on February 28.
Describing the victory as a proud moment, Jitendra Singh said the achievement proved that there was never any shortage of talent among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our boys have won the Ranji Trophy. This proves there was never a shortage of talent, ability or potential among our children. When they are given the right opportunity at the right time, they display confidence, focus and a strong spirit of hard work,” he said.
Sharing the felicitation moments on X, the minister noted that the team’s success had energised the entire youth community and reaffirmed the belief that providing a level playing field under the leadership of Narendra Modi has created an aspirational surge and renewed confidence among young people.
He also lauded the efforts of the team’s support staff and administrators, including Mithun Manhas, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and Brig (Retd) Anil Gupta, member administration of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association, for guiding the players and ensuring a transparent and professional environment.
The minister said that earlier concerns had been raised regarding the functioning and selection process within the cricket association, but this time the selection process was conducted fairly and without bias, allowing talented players to perform to their potential.
Highlighting broader changes in the region, Jitendra Singh said the success of the cricket team reflected the growing opportunities for youth in Jammu and Kashmir, which have boosted aspiration and confidence across society.
He cited recent examples of young achievers from the region, including candidates from modest backgrounds in the Kashmir Valley who secured top ranks in civil services examinations, as well as a student from Poonch who emerged among the country’s top performers.
The minister also referred to the success of lavender cultivation in Bhaderwah, popularly known as the “Purple Revolution,” which has created new livelihood opportunities and inspired similar initiatives in other hill states.
Expressing optimism about the future, he said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir would play a key role in India’s development journey and contribute to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’.
