Bilquis Mir appointed competition Director for first Khelo India water Sports Games
Srinagar, July 12 (KINS): Renowned water sports champion and India’s first woman Olympic jury member (Paris 2024), Bilquis Mir has been nominated as the Competition Director for the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Games, scheduled to be held in Srinagar from August 21 to 23, 2025.
News agency KINS reported that the nomination was formally issued by the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA), which is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. In an official communiqué (Ref No: IKCA/001/2025) to the Director General, Youth Services and Sports Department, J&K, the IKCA requested that Ms. Mir’s services be made available for this prestigious national event.
“Bilquis Mir has represented India with distinction on the global stage. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable in delivering a high-standard event,” said Prashant Kushwaha, President of IKCA.
The three-day sporting extravaganza will feature kayaking, canoeing, and rowing events across Dal Lake and other designated water venues, establishing Srinagar as a hub for aquatic sports under the Khelo India initiative—a flagship program to promote grassroots participation and develop young talent nationwide.
As part of the pre-event preparations, a venue recce is currently underway, led by senior competition officials, including Ms. Bilquis Mir (Canoeing & Kayaking) and Mr. Saji Thomas (Rowing). Their visit aims to assess infrastructure readiness and streamline logistical arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Games.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir, with sports officials, athletes, and civil society celebrating it as a milestone for the region’s sporting landscape and a powerful example of women’s leadership in Indian sports.(KINS)
