PM Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh in Basti today. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also present in this inauguration ceremony to be held at Shaheed Satyawan Singh Stadium. PM Narendra Modi also watched the Balika Kho-Kho match between Harraiya vs Sadar online.
PM Modi said on the occasion of the inauguration ceremony that there was a time when sports were counted only as an extra-curricular activity. It was considered only a means of time pass apart from studies. But in the last 8-9 years, the country has left behind this old thinking and worked to provide a better environment for sports.
The Prime Minister said, ‘We have done the best ever in Olympics and Paralympics. India’s performance in tournaments of different sports has been a matter of discussion. But this is just the beginning, we have a long journey to go and make records. The PM further said that sport is a skill, it is also a possibility. It is also a talent and determination. Training has its own importance in the development of sports. Along with this, it is necessary that sports competitions continue so that players get a chance to test their skills.
Emphasis is being laid on our players having adequate resources, training, technical knowledge, international exposure and transparency in their selection.
National players are being given more and more opportunities. That’s why today Winter Games, Asian Games and many other games are taking place and people are participating. Under the Games India, the government is giving financial opportunities to the sportspersons. Keeping in view the needs of international players, the government has given them assistance ranging from Rs 2.5 crore to Rs 7 crore. Today’s India is ready to face every challenge for sports.
Today, infrastructure is being prepared in Basti and other such districts, arrangements for coaches are being made. More than 1000 centers are being set up in the country under Khelo India. UP’s Meerut Sports Center is being constructed. To promote sports, sports hostels are also being run in many districts of UP.
PM Narendra Modi said that the youth have immense opportunities. They have to hoist the flag of victory. The name of the country has to be illuminated. All sportspersons know how important it is to stay fit. Therefore, include yoga in your life so that the mind along with the body remains awake.