In an extraordinary demonstration of empowerment and community development, the Indian Army has launched an initiative aimed at uplifting young girls in the remote South of Pir Panjal region of Jammu and Kashmir. By offering a structured volleyball coaching program, the Army is not only promoting sports but also contributing to broader efforts to empower women and challenge social norms in one of the most underdeveloped parts of the country.
The initiative began in August 2024, when 30 young girls from the districts of Rajouri and Poonch were selected to participate in an intensive volleyball coaching camp. With the guidance of experienced coaches and sports physiotherapists, the girls received training in fundamental volleyball skills, strategies, and physical conditioning. The curriculum, developed in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir’s sports authorities, was designed to build not only athletic skills but also self-esteem and leadership qualities.
The results of this program have been extraordinary. The 30 participants, divided into three age categories (U-14, U-17, U-19), underwent a series of trials and competitions that culminated in 19 girls being selected to represent their districts at the Jammu Division level. After a series of rigorous selections, seven girls were chosen to represent the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (UT) at the national level, including three in the U-19 category, one in U-17, and three in U-14. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship of these young athletes, and it marks a major milestone for women’s sports in the region.
Historically, sports have been a male-dominated domain, and many girls in the South of Pir Panjal had limited access to opportunities in athletics. By providing a platform for young girls to showcase their talent, the Indian Army has not only given them the chance to excel in sports but has also helped change perceptions about women’s capabilities. These athletes are now seen as role models, inspiring other girls in their communities to dream big and break traditional gender barriers.
The Army’s initiative also underscores the importance of sports in fostering life skills. Apart from physical fitness, the girls have learned valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork, and resilience—skills that will serve them in all aspects of life. Whether on or off the court, these young women are now better equipped to tackle challenges, contribute to their communities, and pursue careers and opportunities that were previously out of reach.
The success of this volleyball program is a powerful reminder of how targeted interventions can create lasting social change. Through sports, the Indian Army is empowering the next generation of women in the South of Pir Panjal, enabling them to envision a future where they can achieve their full potential. This initiative exemplifies how sports can be a transformative tool for community development and gender equality, and it sets a precedent for similar programs across the country.