New Delhi (February 23): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the ‘Khelo India’ initiative for providing a platform to talented athletes who showcased their skills in the recently concluded 38th National Games in Uttarakhand. During the 119th episode of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, the Prime Minister acknowledged the growing presence of young athletes and highlighted India’s progress toward becoming a “global sporting powerhouse.”
The 38th edition of the National Games, held from January 28 to February 14 in Uttarakhand, featured over 11,000 athletes from across the country.
“Many of our players are the result of the ‘Khelo India’ campaign,” said PM Modi. He specifically mentioned athletes such as Sawan Barwal (Himachal Pradesh), Kiran Mate (Maharashtra), Tejas Shirse and Jyoti Yaraji (Andhra Pradesh), Javelin thrower Sachin Yadav (Uttar Pradesh), high jumper Pooja (Haryana), and swimmer Dhinidhi Desindhu (Karnataka), all of whom performed exceptionally well at the games.
The Prime Minister was especially impressed by the rise of teenage champions at the games, noting, “The number of teenage champions in this year’s national games is surprising. I am happy that with the determination and discipline of our young athletes, India today is rapidly moving towards becoming a global sporting powerhouse.”
Modi also lauded the successful organization of the 38th National Games, which he described as a reimagined version of ‘Devbhoomi’ (Uttarakhand). “This event presented a new version of Devbhoomi. Uttarakhand is now emerging as a strong sporting force in the country,” he said, emphasizing the transformative power of sports in shaping individuals, communities, and even entire states.
He extended his congratulations to the services team for winning the most gold medals in the competition, further underscoring the growing importance of sports in India’s development.