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J&K's Historic Ranji Trophy Win Hailed by PM Modi as Sporting Hub Rises

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated part of his Mann Ki Baat address to celebrating the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team's historic first Ranji Trophy title. He highlighted the significance of the victory after a wait of nearly seven decades and specifically praised the outstanding season of young bowler Auqib Nabi. The Prime Minister linked this success to the region's deep sporting passion and its growing identity as a host for major events like the Khelo India Winter Games. He expressed delight at J&K's emergence as a recognized hub for sporting excellence.

Key Points: PM Modi Praises Jammu & Kashmir's Maiden Ranji Trophy Victory

  • J&K's first Ranji Trophy title in nearly 70 years
  • PM Modi highlights triumph on Mann Ki Baat
  • Seamer Auqib Nabi praised for 60-wicket season
  • Region emerging as a major sporting events hub
  • Success of Khelo India Winter Games 2026 noted
2 min read

PM Modi lauds J-K's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph, praises region's growing sporting culture

PM Modi congratulates J&K cricket team on historic Ranji Trophy win, highlights region's growing stature as a hub for major sporting events and talent.

"The most gratifying aspect is that, after a long wait of nearly seven decades, this team secured its maiden Ranji title. - PM Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, March 29

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed Jammu and Kashmir's emergence as a hub for sporting excellence, congratulating the region's cricket team on clinching their maiden Ranji Trophy title.

Addressing the nation on Sunday during the 132nd episode of his monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat", the Prime Minister reflected on J-K's historic victory in the Ranji Trophy final in Hubballi, where the Paras Dogra-led side defeated Karnataka to lift their first domestic crown.

"Towards the end of last month, a highly intriguing contest unfolded in Hubballi, Karnataka, where the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team claimed the Ranji Trophy. The most gratifying aspect is that, after a long wait of nearly seven decades, this team secured its maiden Ranji title," said PM.

Modi also singled out seamer Auqib Nabi for his outstanding performance during the season.

"Today, the performance of young Kashmiri bowler Auqib Nabi--who has taken 60 wickets in the Ranji season--is also being widely discussed across the country," he said.

He noted that the landmark triumph has sparked widespread celebrations across the Union Territory.

"This victory has left the team's players and coaching staff, as well as the people of Jammu and Kashmir, absolutely thrilled," he added.

Highlighting the region's deep-rooted sporting culture, the Prime Minister said Jammu and Kashmir is steadily gaining recognition as a venue for major sporting events.

"The people of Jammu and Kashmir have always displayed an extraordinary passion for sports. I am delighted that the region is now emerging as a hub for major sporting events as well," he said.

The Prime Minister also referred to the successful hosting of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026, with the first phase held in Ladakh from January 20 to 26, featuring over 900 athletes from 25 states and Union Territories competing across six disciplines in Gulmarg and Leh. The closing ceremony of the second leg was held in Gulmarg on February 26.

"Gulmarg has already established a distinct identity for itself as the venue for the Khelo India Winter Games. Sports such as football are also immensely popular among the youth here", PM Modi said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who follows domestic cricket closely, this is a well-deserved victory. Paras Dogra's leadership and the team's grit were amazing to watch. Hope this inspires more youngsters from the region to take up sports professionally.
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Vikram M
While it's great to celebrate sporting achievements, I wish the focus was more on the players and less on the political messaging. The boys from J&K worked hard for this; their victory should stand on its own merit. Let's just cheer for the cricket.
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Priya S
Heartwarming to see such positive news from Jammu & Kashmir. Sports truly have the power to unite and bring joy. The Winter Games in Gulmarg also sound incredible. Wishing all the athletes the very best! 🇮🇳
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Rohit P
Bahut badhiya! Finally, the wait is over. Jai ho to the entire team! This victory is for every fan who supported them through the years. Now, we need to ensure this momentum continues with better infrastructure and coaching at the grassroots level in the UT.
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Michael C
A historic win indeed. Beating a strong team like Karnataka in the final is no small feat. Kudos to the coaching staff as well. Hope to see some of these players in the IPL and maybe even the national team soon.

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