Kashmir’s Daughter to Steer India’s First Water Sports Festival Under Khelo India Banner
Srinagar: In a landmark moment for Jammu and Kashmir, Ms. Bilquis Mir, a trailblazer in Indian water sports and the country’s first woman Olympic jury member (Paris 2024), has been nominated as the Competition Director for the First Khelo India Water Sports Games, slated to be held in Srinagar from August 21 to 23, 2025. The nomination was formally conveyed by the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA), which is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. In a letter addressed to the Director General, Youth Services and Sports Department, J&K, the IKCA has requested that Ms. Mir’s services be made available to oversee this prestigious national-level event. “Bilquis Mir has represented India with distinction on several global platforms. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable in ensuring the Games are conducted at the highest standard,” said Prashant Kushwaha, President of IKCA, in the official communiqué (Ref No: IKCA/001/2025).
The three-day championship will feature kayaking, canoeing, and rowing events across Dal Lake and other selected venues, placing Srinagar firmly on the national map for water-based adventure and sporting excellence. The Games are being organized under the Khelo India initiative, a flagship national program that aims to promote grassroots participation and foster emerging talent across the country.
As part of the preparations, a venue recce is being conducted by senior competition officials, including Ms. Bilquis Mir(Canoeing & Kayaking) and Mr. Saji Thomas (Rowing). Their visit is focused on evaluating infrastructure readiness and fine-tuning logistical arrangements to ensure the event runs seamlessly. The announcement has been widely applauded across Jammu and Kashmir, with officials, athletes, and local stakeholders calling it a historic milestone for the region’s sporting ecosystem and a shining example of women’s leadership in Indian sports.
