Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the 7th Khelo India Youth Games via videoconferencing, inspiring young athletes and reaffirming India’s commitment to sports development.
With competitions spanning across Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai, the prestigious event welcomes more than 6,000 athletes from diverse regions, competing for national glory.
During his address, PM Modi emphasised India’s growing sports culture and reiterated the nation’s ambition to host the Olympics in 2036. He underscored the government’s commitment to modernising sports infrastructure, revealing that the national sports budget has tripled in the last decade, now standing at approximately ₹4,000 crore.
Strengthening India’s Sports Infrastructure
The government’s continuous support for sports at the grassroots level remains central to its vision. Under the Khelo India initiative, over 1,000 sports training centres are operational across India, including more than three dozen in Bihar alone. Additionally, the Bihar Sports University and State Sports Academy aim to identify and nurture emerging talent, fostering excellence in sports.
PM Modi also acknowledged Bihar’s growing contribution to India’s sports sector, referencing young cricket sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who recently made waves in the IPL. He stressed the importance of regular competition exposure for honing skills and refining talent.
Emphasis on Indigenous and Emerging Sports
Beyond mainstream sports, the Khelo India Games have incorporated traditional Indian sports such as Gatka, Kalaripayattu, Kho-Kho, and Mallakhamb, ensuring cultural preservation alongside competitive development. Emerging disciplines like Wushu, Sepak Takraw, and Roller Skating also gained recognition, highlighting India’s widening sporting landscape.
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Career Opportunities in Sports
PM Modi noted the sports industry’s role in generating employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. With advancements in sports technology, analytics, broadcasting, physiotherapy, coaching, and event management, young professionals can now explore diverse career paths beyond the playing field. He emphasised that stadiums are transforming into hubs for thousands of jobs, further reinforcing India’s sports-driven economy.
As he declared the Khelo India Youth Games officially open, PM Modi extended his best wishes to all participants. He encouraged them to embrace sportsmanship, perseverance, and national pride, reaffirming their role in India’s global sporting ambition.
