Jammu & Kashmir is moving forward with a new spirit of hope, confidence and ambition. Today, the youth of Kashmir are making their mark in sports, education, business and other fields, showing the world that the Valley has enormous talent and potential.

The third edition of the Kashmir Marathon, scheduled for October 25, 2026, in Srinagar, is an important step towards promoting sports, tourism and international participation. More than 1,700 athletes have reportedly registered, including participants from several foreign countries. The event reflects Kashmir’s potential to become a recognised destination for international sporting events. <Cite refs={["turn613363search0","turn613363search3"]}/>

However, the full story of Jammu & Kashmir cannot be understood through a single sporting event or a few positive headlines. For decades, terrorism, militancy and violence have caused deep suffering across the region. Families have lost loved ones, communities have been divided, businesses and schools have been disrupted, and countless young people have grown up amid fear and uncertainty. Pakistan has been accused by India of supporting cross-border terrorism, which has threatened peace and disrupted the lives of ordinary people. At the same time, the people of Kashmir have continued to show resilience, courage and a desire for dignity, justice and a peaceful future.

The story of Kashmir also includes the pain of displacement, the sacrifices of security personnel, the suffering of civilians and the loss of opportunities caused by prolonged conflict. It includes the voices of families seeking justice, young people demanding education and employment, and communities wishing to live without violence or political intimidation. Any honest discussion about Kashmir must acknowledge this difficult history while also recognising the region’s aspirations and achievements.

Terrorism cannot bring development, employment or a better future. It destroys families, damages communities and deprives young people of opportunities. No religion supports the killing of innocent people, and religious sentiments must never be misused to promote violence or extremism. Peace must be built through security, justice, dialogue, democratic participation and equal opportunities for all citizens.

India has continued to invest in the development of Jammu & Kashmir, including sports infrastructure, educational institutions, roads, tourism and opportunities for young people. Kashmiri athletes are representing India in cricket, rugby, martial arts, kabaddi, winter sports and other disciplines. Their achievements demonstrate that the youth of Kashmir want to succeed through hard work, education and talent. Yet development must reach every district, village and community, and it must be accompanied by transparency, accountability and respect for the rights and dignity of ordinary people.

Sports are also an effective way to fight drug abuse and promote unity. Every playground, stadium and training centre gives young people an opportunity to develop discipline, confidence and a healthy lifestyle. The government, civil society and local communities must work together to ensure that these facilities reach every village and every section of society. Sports should not be limited to major cities; rural and disadvantaged youth must receive coaching, equipment and opportunities to compete.

The Kashmir Marathon offers an opportunity to showcase Srinagar’s natural beauty, hospitality and cultural heritage to the world. International athletes and visitors can help promote tourism, create business opportunities and strengthen Kashmir’s image as a peaceful destination. With sustained investment and professional event management, Jammu & Kashmir can further expand its role in national and international sports.

The full story of Kashmir is therefore not only one of conflict, nor is it only a story of development and celebration. It is a story of pain and resilience, loss and hope, challenges and achievement. The region still faces concerns related to unemployment, drug abuse, political alienation, displacement, security and social divisions. These issues require serious attention rather than slogans. Lasting peace will depend on ensuring that development is inclusive, institutions are trusted, and every citizen feels secure and respected.

The people of Jammu & Kashmir deserve peace, justice, democracy and equal opportunities. Their future should not be dictated by terrorism or propaganda. The real strength of Kashmir lies in its educated youth, hardworking families, talented athletes and communities that believe in peaceful coexistence.

The message is clear: Kashmir wants development, not destruction; education, not extremism; sports, not violence; and peace, not terrorism.

Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of India, and its young people have the potential to contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. By strengthening peace, promoting sports, addressing legitimate grievances and creating opportunities, we can build a future in which Kashmiri youth proudly represent India on the world stage.

Let the world see the full story of Kashmir: its suffering, resilience, culture, champions and achievements—not only the violence that has held it back for too long. The future belongs to peace, unity, justice and progress.