PM Modi Inaugurates 7th Khelo India Youth Games, Highlights Vision for India as Future Olympic Host.
Patna:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the 7th Khelo India Youth Games today, extending heartfelt wishes to the over 6,000 young athletes gathered from across the country to compete in Bihar. Speaking via videoconferencing, the Prime Minister lauded the energy, dedication, and sporting spirit of India’s youth, emphasizing that events like these are crucial in nurturing a strong sports culture and positioning India on the global sporting map.
In his address, PM Modi expressed confidence that the Khelo India Youth Games would inspire true sporting excellence. “May this platform bring out your best,” he said, acknowledging the athletes’ hard work and determination. Highlighting the scale of the games, he noted that competitions will take place across five cities—Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai—making it the most widespread edition yet.
Olympic Ambitions and Infrastructure Push
Reiterating India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games, the Prime Minister stated that it is a dream of every Indian, and the government is actively working toward it. He underlined the growing investment in sports infrastructure, revealing that India’s sports budget has tripled in the past decade, reaching ₹4,000 crore this year. A significant part of this is being used to establish and enhance Khelo India Centers, including over 36 in Bihar alone.
Bihar’s Growing Sports Ecosystem
PM Modi praised Bihar’s progress, citing initiatives like the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence in Rajgir, Bihar Sports University, and the upcoming Sports City along the Patna-Gaya highway. He said these developments will not only uplift Bihar’s youth but also cement the state’s position on India’s sporting landscape.
Athletes as Catalysts of Soft Power
Describing sports as a new pillar of India’s soft power, Modi emphasized the growing influence of Indian athletes on the world stage. He highlighted India’s achievements in traditional games like Mallakhamb, Kho-Kho, and Gatka, alongside new disciplines such as Wushu, Sepak Takraw, and Lawn Bowls, mentioning the historic Lawn Bowls medal won by the women’s team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Sports as a Career and Education Stream
Touching upon the New National Education Policy, PM Modi said sports have now been integrated into mainstream education. He pointed out that careers in sports today go beyond just playing—fields like physiotherapy, sports analytics, management, and media are thriving. “Today, a stadium is not just a venue but a workplace for thousands,” he said, urging youth to explore the vast career potential within the sports ecosystem.
Call for Sportsmanship and Unity
Calling athletes the brand ambassadors of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,’ he encouraged them to embody sportsmanship, unity, and perseverance, and to cherish the cultural experience of Bihar. “Don’t forget to enjoy the taste of Litti Chokha and Makhana,” he said with a smile.
The Prime Minister concluded by officially declaring the 7th Khelo India Youth Games open, expressing hope that the event will elevate both the spirit of competition and national pride.
The ceremony was graced by dignitaries including Bihar Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar, Union Ministers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Smt Raksha Khadse, and Shri Ram Nath Thakur, among others.
