NEW DELHI: In a remarkable achievement, a girls’ volleyball team from the remote South of Pir Panjal region in Jammu and Kashmir has garnered attention for its exceptional performance. Trained under the Indian Army’s volleyball coaching initiative, these young athletes have showcased their strength, skill, and determination, earning spots in the Jammu and Kashmir State Team for national tournaments.
The program, launched in August 2024, began with the participation of 30 girls from the districts of Rajouri and Poonch. With guidance from experienced coaches and support from local J&K sports authorities, the girls underwent rigorous training covering fundamental volleyball skills, game strategies, and fitness. The Army’s well-structured coaching curriculum helped the girls refine their abilities and hone their potential.
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The initiative has already seen success, with 19 girls from the program qualifying for district-level tournaments. From there, 15 advanced to represent their districts at the Jammu Division level, and eight girls made it to the state-level trials. Out of the 30 initial participants, seven girls have been selected to represent Jammu and Kashmir at the National level in three age categories: U-19, U-17, and U-14. Three girls will compete in the U-19 category, one in U-17, and three in U-14, making this a significant milestone for both the athletes and the region.
This achievement highlights the powerful role of sports in empowering young women, particularly in a region where gender roles and societal expectations often limit opportunities for girls. The Indian Army’s initiative has not only boosted the girls’ athletic careers but also played a crucial part in shifting societal attitudes towards women in sports. By equipping these young athletes with skills that transcend the volleyball court, the Army’s coaching program is helping to foster leadership, self-confidence, and resilience.
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This initiative serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, showing that when young women are given the right resources and opportunities, they can achieve greatness on and off the field. Through this program, the Indian Army continues to make strides in community development, gender equality, and women’s empowerment in the Pir Panjal region.