Watch: PM Narendra Modi hails J&K’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph in Mann Ki Baat

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised India’s recent cricket success and spoke about the growing sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir during the 132nd episode of his radio programme Mann Ki Baat.

He said the past month has been very exciting for cricket fans, especially after India’s big win in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. He added that people across the country celebrated the victory with great joy and pride.

PM Modi also spoke about a big achievement in domestic cricket. The Jammu and Kashmir team won their first Ranji Trophy title after nearly 70 years. He said this win came from the hard work and dedication of the players.

Watch the special moment here: 

PM Modi praises Jammu & Kashmir’s landmark Ranji Trophy victory

The Head of the Indian Government, Narendra Modi, highlighted the historic achievement of Jammu and Kashmir, saying the team made history by winning the Ranji Trophy.

Talking about the final match played in Karnataka, he said this was the first time Jammu and Kashmir won the title in nearly 70 years. He also praised young fast bowler Aaqib Nabi for his strong performance, saying his 60 wickets in the season earned wide praise.

He said this big win has created happiness and excitement among players, support staff, and people across the region. He also spoke about the growing sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir, saying more young people are now taking part in sports.

The PMO added that the Khelo India Winter Games have helped make Gulmarg a popular place for winter sports. He also said games like football are becoming more popular among young people, showing a positive change towards fitness and sports.

Historic moment for J&K cricket on national stage

For many years, young boys in Jammu and Kashmir grew up as cricket fans. They watched matches on TV, supported their favourite players, and played cricket in small streets and open grounds. Wearing the India jersey felt like a distant dream.

The big win of the Jammu and Kashmir team in the Ranji Trophy against the Karnataka cricket team has changed this feeling. When J&K won their first Ranji title on February 28, 2026, with a strong first-innings lead of 291 runs, it became a proud moment for the whole region. The joy was seen in places like Sopore, Shopian, and Srinagar.

This win showed young people that they are not just fans anymore—they can also become future players for India.

After the victory, spinner Sahil Lotra called it a very special moment and said it was a big achievement after years of hard work. Fast bowler Aaqib Nabi also said the team wanted to prove that they could compete with the best teams, and they did it.

For young cricketers in Jammu and Kashmir, the Ranji Trophy is very important. It is a big platform where many top Indian players have started their careers. Winning it shows that the team is ready for bigger challenges in the future.

See also -Jammu and Kashmir to get special gift from BCCI secretary after winning Ranji Trophy 2025/26 title

Fans react to PM’s special mention in Mann Ki Baat

Fans reacted positively after the special mention by Narendra Modi in Mann Ki Baat. Many people felt proud to see Jammu and Kashmir and its cricket team getting national attention. On social media, fans praised the players for their hard work and said the recognition will inspire more young people to take up sports. Many also said that such support from the government will help improve sports culture and give more opportunities to talented youth in the region.