Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Khelo India University Games, emphasizing the government’s commitment to developing sports in the country. The event, which is taking place from May 25 to June 3 in Uttar Pradesh, will witness the participation of over 4,750 athletes from more than 200 universities, competing in 21 sports across various cities.
PM Modi expressed his joy that the closing ceremony of the games would be held in Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency. He highlighted the significance of organizing the event during the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, stating that it promotes the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India) and team unity.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the transformative change in India’s sporting landscape in recent years. He recalled the past when sports received limited support from the government, making it difficult for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to excel in sports. However, he praised the changing attitude among parents towards sports and credited the Khelo India Abhiyan for making sports an attractive career option.
PM Modi lamented the lack of sincerity towards previous sports initiatives and the inadequate sports infrastructure before his government came into power. He highlighted the significant increase in the sports budget, with three times more funds allocated compared to nine years ago. The Prime Minister also mentioned the improvement in rural and remote sports infrastructure.
The National Educational Policy’s proposal to incorporate sports as a subject in the curriculum and the establishment of the country’s first National Sports University were highlighted as measures to strengthen the sports ecosystem. PM Modi also commended Uttar Pradesh for its commendable efforts, including the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut and the establishment of 1,000 Khelo India Centres nationwide.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of promoting traditional Indian sports and mentioned the scholarships provided to encourage disciplines such as Gatka, Mallakhamb, Thang-ta, Kalaripayattu, and Yogasan. He also acknowledged the increased participation of women in the Khelo India program and highlighted the organization of the Khelo India Women’s League.
PM Modi concluded his speech by emphasizing the values of sportsmanship and team spirit, stating that true greatness lies in upholding the spirit of sportsmanship and dignity in both victory and defeat. He urged athletes to inspire society with their conduct and take the glory of the Indian tricolor to new heights.
The Khelo India University Games are part of the government’s comprehensive efforts to support young athletes and strengthen the sports ecosystem in the country. The mascot of the games, named ‘Jitu,’ represents the Swamp Deer (Barasingha), which is the state animal of Uttar Pradesh. The closing ceremony of the games will be held in Varanasi on June 3.
