Speaking at the ‘Sansad Khel Mahotsav’, a festival focused on sports and fitness to cultivate a sporting culture and leadership among the youth, PM Modi emphasized the vast scale and significant impact of the Mahotsav.
He noted that this initiative is uncovering thousands of talented athletes.
“The festival is progressively becoming a crucial pillar of youth empowerment and nation-building. A notable feature of the ‘Sansad Khel Mahotsav’ is how it is transforming societal perceptions,” he stated.
The prime minister mentioned that before 2014, there were frequent irregularities in team selection and the infrastructure for sports.
“Today, such practices are a thing of the past. Children from even the poorest families can now reach the highest levels based purely on hard work and talent,” he added.
PM Modi also pointed out that over Rs 3000 crore has been allocated to the country’s sports budget, which had been less than Rs 1200 crore before 2014.
He revealed that through a special scheme, athletes are being granted monthly financial support ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000.
“I want to convey to every athlete in the country that you are not only playing for personal victory but also for the nation, for the honour and dignity of the tricolour,” he remarked.
The prime minister urged all parents to motivate their children to engage in sports and to provide opportunities for participation in athletic activities.
Sports are not just an aspect of education but are vital for maintaining a healthy body and mind, he asserted.
Discussing the growth of sports culture in the nation, the prime minister noted that inspiring examples are emerging from every corner, motivating the country.
He acknowledged that in some regions, differently-abled athletes are overcoming limitations and achieving great success, while in other areas, young girls are working diligently to make their dreams come true on the sports fields.
“Today, Indian athletes are breaking records, establishing new benchmarks, and elevating India on the global sporting landscape,” he said.
PM Modi observed that just a few years ago, family members would scold children for playing too much, as it was perceived as a waste of time. Now, he noted, society and parents have come to understand that participation in sports does not derail one’s future.
“They now recognize that excelling in sports can transform not only their lives but also that of their families, villages, and society at large. Today, opportunities in sports are boundless,” he stated.
The prime minister announced that India will host the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030, which will attract global attention. “Additionally, India is working towards hosting the Olympics in 2036,” he added.
The ‘Sansad Khel Mahotsav’ aims to promote a sporting culture and leadership among the youth, while its primary goal is to unite communities through sports and fitness, spreading the message of ‘Fit India’ throughout every home.
The festival includes a three-tier competition structure, featuring events at the village, block/ward, and parliamentary constituency levels.
Sports categories encompass traditional games, football, volleyball, and cricket, along with engaging activities like tug of war, lemon spoon races, and sack races to ensure extensive participation.
