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JAMMU: Sham Lal Sharma, MLA Jammu North, and Arvind Gupta, MLA Jammu West, jointly laid the foundation stone for the development of a Public Park, Box Cricket Ground, Basketball Court and Kids’ Play Area at Patoli, Ward No. 35, marking a significant step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and public amenities in the area. The foundation stone-laying ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Devansh Yadav, IAS, Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation,
The project, being undertaken by the Jammu Municipal Corporation, is aimed at creating a modern, safe and vibrant public space for children, youth and local residents. The integrated facility will provide dedicated opportunities for sports, recreation and physical activity, while also adding a much-needed green and community space to the locality.
Speaking on the occasion, Sham Lal Sharma, MLA Jammu North, said that the vision behind developing such sports and recreational facilities goes far beyond creating physical infrastructure—it is about building a healthy, fit and drug-free India by empowering the younger generation.
He said that children and youth must be provided with positive and constructive avenues to channel their energy, talent and aspirations. “If we want a healthier and stronger future, we must keep our young generation physically active, engaged in sports and connected with positive activities. Sports can play a powerful role in keeping our youth away from drugs, substance abuse and other negative influences,” he said.
Sharma further emphasized that creating accessible sports facilities at the neighbourhood level is an investment in the future of society. He said that facilities such as the Box Cricket Ground, Basketball Court, Kids’ Play Area and Public Park will encourage children and youth to step out, participate, compete and develop healthy habits.
He said the collective objective should be to create a generation that is physically fit, mentally strong, disciplined and confident. “A healthy youth means a healthy society, and a healthy society is the foundation of a strong India,” he added.
Sharma also said that development must be people-centric and should directly improve the quality of everyday life of citizens. While basic civic infrastructure remains essential, he said equal attention must be given to green spaces, recreation and opportunities for sports and physical activity. He appreciated the Jammu Municipal Corporation for taking up the project and stressed that the work should be executed with the highest standards of quality and completed within the stipulated timeframe.
Arvind Gupta, MLA Jammu West, said that the development of a public park along with a Box Cricket Ground, Basketball Court and Kids’ Play Area is a welcome initiative that will significantly enhance sporting and recreational opportunities for the residents of Patoli and adjoining areas. He said that such facilities provide children and youth with opportunities to participate in outdoor sports, develop their talent and spend their time in a healthy and productive environment. He appreciated the efforts of JMC and all stakeholders for bringing this important public amenity to the area.
Dr. Devansh Yadav, IAS, Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation, said that JMC is committed to developing modern, accessible and well-planned public amenities across Jammu city. He said that the Patoli project has been conceived as a multipurpose community space catering to the sporting and recreational needs of children, youth and residents. He assured that the project would be executed as per prescribed standards, with due emphasis on quality, safety, functionality and timely completion.
On the occasion, former Corporators, senior BJP dignitaries, members of the Mandal and Morcha teams, prominent citizens, XEN JMC Civil Division-II and officials of the JMC Civil Department were present. The project is expected to emerge as an important community facility, offering sports, recreation and open public space under one project. It will encourage greater participation in sports, promote healthier lifestyles and provide children and youth with a constructive environment to learn, compete and excel.
Local residents welcomed the initiative and expressed their gratitude to MLAs Sham Lal Sharma and Arvind Gupta and the Jammu Municipal Corporation, stating that the project will significantly improve the availability of sporting and recreational facilities in the area and contribute towards creating a healthier and more vibrant community.