Srinagar Athlete Saliq bin Farooq Secures Gold at Khelo India Beach Games 2026
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Saliq bin Farooq from Srinagar emerged victorious in the 65–70 kg category at the prestigious Khelo India Beach Games 2026. His outstanding performance not only earned him a gold medal but also added to the growing medal tally of Jammu and Kashmir in national sports competitions.
The Khelo India Beach Games, now in its 2nd Edition, took place in the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu from January 5 to January 11, 2026. This edition witnessed over 1,100 athletes competing across eight beach sports disciplines, making it one of the largest beach sporting events in the country.
Throughout the competition, Saliq showcased exceptional skill, composure, and tactical brilliance. He secured victories in the quarter-final against Sudarshan K of Tamil Nadu and the semi-final against Sheikh Arbaaj of Chhattisgarh before clinching the gold medal in the final bout against Ashish Kumar Singh of Delhi, bringing glory to Jammu & Kashmir.
Expressing his gratitude after the win, Saliq bin Farooq attributed his success to his coach, Mohd Iqbal, whose guidance and training played a pivotal role in his victory. He emphasized the importance of support systems in an athlete’s journey to success and highlighted the positive impact of Pencak Silat on the sporting landscape of India.
The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, particularly Secretary Nuzhat Gull, was acknowledged for their efforts in strengthening sports infrastructure and providing opportunities for young athletes to shine on national platforms. The council’s support led to the outstanding performance of the J&K contingent at the Games, securing multiple medals across various disciplines.
The overall success of the J&K contingent was praised by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, who commended the athletes for their achievements and highlighted the role of sports in promoting health, harmony, and peace in the region.
The J&K Sports Council congratulated the medal winners, coaches, and support staff for their dedication and performance, emphasizing the importance of focused training and institutional support in achieving sporting excellence. The council reiterated the growing confidence and consistency of athletes from Jammu & Kashmir in competing at the national level.
Saliq bin Farooq’s gold medal triumph in the 65–70 kg category not only symbolizes a significant milestone for Kashmir’s sporting community but also underscores the rising prominence of Pencak Silat as a competitive sport in India. Jammu & Kashmir’s success at the Khelo India Beach Games reflects the region’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and creating a conducive environment for athletes to excel on national and international stages.
