30/04/2026
sports Iqbal Budoo retires after 35 years service
for his pivotal role in sports in Uri
Zaffer Iqbal
Uri, Apr 30 (GNS): Javid Iqbal Budoo, a senior Physical Education Master with the Department of Youth Services and Sports in Uri, retired on Thursday after rendering more than 35 years of service.
A farewell was organised in his honour by the Youth Services and Sports Department and the Education Department at separate functions, where he was felicitated alongside Mohammad Iqbal Banday and Chiranjeet Singh. The events, as per GNS, were attended by MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi, Director School Education Kashmir Naseer Ahmad Wani, noted broadcaster Maqsood Ahmad, senior officers, and local residents, who acknowledged the contributions of the retiring officials.
Budoo began his career in 1991 as a Physical Education Teacher and was promoted to the post of Physical Education Master in 2020. In 2024, he was entrusted with the additional charge of Zonal Physical Education Officer for Uri. Before joining government service, he represented at the national level in volleyball, which shaped his long association with sports.
Over the years, he played a central role in encouraging youth participation in sports and mentoring athletes across disciplines. Teams trained under his supervision represented in cricket, volleyball, and handball at competitions held in Delhi, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal.
He also contributed as an umpire and interacted with noted cricketers such as Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh, Bishan Singh Bedi, and Mahendra Singh Dhoni during his career.
Beyond his professional role, Budoo remained involved in public service during challenging periods, including cross border shelling in 1998 and 2019, the 2005 earthquake, Operation Sindoor, and the Covid 19 pandemic, assisting local administration in relief efforts.
Known for his organisational skills, he was a regular presence at major public events in Uri, including Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations.
In his farewell address, Budoo expressed gratitude to the Jammu and Kashmir Volleyball Association, District Volleyball Association, colleagues, and well wishers for their support throughout his career.
Among those present were principals of Boys and Girls Higher Secondary Schools Uri, officials from the Youth Services and Sports Department, SDPO and SHO Uri, officers from Baramulla district, and members of the Bar Association Uri. (GNS)
