Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], January 5: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the third edition of Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 in Rajkot, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to providing world-class infrastructure and facilities for athletes. Speaking at the event, CM Patel highlighted the significant increase in the state’s sports budget, which has grown from Rs 2.5 crore in 2002 to Rs 352 crore today. In tandem with this financial boost, the number of sports complexes in the state has risen from just three in 2002 to 24 across 22 districts, with 13 more under construction.
The Chief Minister also revealed plans for new sports infrastructure, including a multi-utility sports center being built in Naranpura on 22 acres, and a 233-acre Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave to be developed near the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket stadium.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Sports Harsh Sanghvi, along with Ministers Kunvarji Bavalia, Bhanuben Babariya, and local officials, including the Mayor and Rajkot city MLAs. CM Patel described the event as a “sports Maha Kumbh,” a reference to the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, underscoring the growing importance of sports in Gujarat.
The Chief Minister further praised the achievements of Indian athletes in international competitions such as the Paris Paralympics and the World Chess Championship, noting that the country’s growing success in sports is fostering an environment of trust and enthusiasm. He also mentioned that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is gearing up to host the 2036 Olympics, with Gujarat playing a key role in organizing world-class sporting events in the coming years.
Since its inception in 2010 under the leadership of then-CM Modi, Khel Mahakumbh has witnessed exponential growth. The first edition saw 16 lakh participants, while this year’s event has set a new record with 71 lakh registrations. CM Patel announced that winners across various sports categories would receive a total of Rs 45 crore in prizes.
The Chief Minister urged the youth of Gujarat to embrace the “Kartavya Kaal” (Era of Duty), as described by PM Modi, and bring glory to the state and the nation through sports. The event also saw the recognition of top performers from Khel Mahakumbh 2.0, including awards for the best schools and municipalities.
Sports Minister Harsh Sanghvi echoed CM Patel’s sentiments, calling Khel Mahakumbh a transformative initiative that has revolutionized sports across Gujarat. He pointed out that the event has connected children and youth from remote areas such as Dang and Kutch to sports opportunities. Thanks to Khel Mahakumbh, Gujarat has produced numerous national and international athletes.
Sanghvi also shared key initiatives under CM Patel’s leadership to further develop the sports sector. These include the In-School Scheme, which provides sports training to over 1.2 lakh children in 230 schools, and the District Level Sports Schools (DLSS) that train 5,500 players across the state. Additionally, 629 athletes are receiving international-level training with substantial government investment.
The inauguration event featured an Olympic-style celebration, complete with a laser show and fireworks, adding to the excitement of the occasion. Ashwani Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Department of Sports, Youth, and Cultural Activities, highlighted the unique sports culture fostered by Khel Mahakumbh, noting that the event has also created a special platform for Divyang athletes.
In addition to the Khel Mahakumbh, CM Patel and Minister Sanghvi also launched new infrastructure projects, including the e-inauguration of a workshop and the flagging off of eight high-tech Volvo buses at the Rajkot ST Divisional Office.
The event was attended by prominent leaders including Water Resources Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Bhanuben Babariya, Rajkot Mayor Naynaben Pedhadia, and Surat Mayor Dakshesh Mavani, among others. Also present were local MLAs, municipal leaders, and officials, who celebrated the growing impact of Khel Mahakumbh on the state’s sports landscape.