Cricket and football are the two most popular sports in Kashmir.
Worried by the repeated display of Islamic State or ISIS flags at different protests in Srinagar, the Narendra Modi government is now turning to sports to keep young men away from radical elements.
Ten days ago, Home Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting during which he directed the Union Sports Ministry to prepare a comprehensive plan to engage the young people of Kashmir in sports.
Cricket and football have been identified as the two most popular sports in the state.
"Sports would be a good way to positively motivate the youth... In our first budget, under the leadership of PM Modi, Rs 200 crore was allocated to Jammu and Kashmir. This shows the Centre's special interest in Kashmir," said Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, speaking exclusively to NDTV.
The ministry is now planning to upgrade the different stadia and training facilities in the state. It will also organise talent hunts and competitions in the state to include local talent.
Most importantly, it would provide exposure to players from the state by sponsoring them to participate at national sporting events.
"This will help these youngsters from Kashmir explore the rest of their country and will help in integrating," said a senior government official.
During the protests of 2010, which witnessed a lot of anger spilling onto the streets of the Valley, a Parliamentary delegation had suggested that encouraging sports would be a good way to connect with and engage the young people.
The Modi government is keen to adopt this approach all over again.