At the closing ceremony of the state-level Senior Prize Money Wrestling Competition held at the Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur on the occasion of Nag Panchami, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a significant statement regarding the state government's sports policies. He stated that the development of sports has been prioritized in Uttar Pradesh, and several major steps have been taken in this direction over the past eight years. The government has not only expanded sports infrastructure at the rural level but has also honored international medal-winning athletes by providing them with government jobs.
CM Yogi said that sports grounds have been constructed at the rural level, mini-stadiums at the block level, and modern stadiums at the district level. In addition, more than 500 players in the state have been given government jobs, giving them a new identity, due to which Uttar Pradesh has now become one of the leading states in the field of sports.
Khelo India Transforms the Landscape of Indian Sports
The Chief Minister praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Khelo India' initiative, stating that this initiative has significantly improved the performance of Indian athletes over the past decade. The confidence and performance of the country's athletes in international events such as the Olympics, Asiad, and Commonwealth Games have been much better than before. He said that players from Uttar Pradesh are now also making their presence felt on these platforms and are bringing glory to the country.
CM Yogi stated that the age-old wrestling tradition at Gorakhnath Temple has now been given the form of a state-level event. This event not only enhances the spirit of sportsmanship but also instills discipline, energy, and self-confidence in the youth. He said that sports are very important for physical and mental development, and only a healthy body is capable of fulfilling religion and duties in life.
The Sports Landscape Changed in 8 Years
The Chief Minister said that the sports landscape in Uttar Pradesh has completely changed in the past eight years. The state government has not only honored the players participating in national and international competitions but has also provided them with necessary resources and facilities. Sports grounds have been constructed in villages, mini-stadiums at the block level, and modern stadiums have been built in the districts. Sports kits have been distributed to players in villages through Yuva Mangal Dal and Mahila Mangal Dal, which has created new energy regarding sports in the villages.
Honoring Wrestlers on Nag Panchami
On the occasion of Nag Panchami, the Chief Minister described this festival as a symbol of spiritual energy and compassion towards animals. He said that traditional sports like wrestling are not only a demonstration of physical strength but also a symbol of spiritual balance and discipline. During this, the Chief Minister honored 'Uttar Pradesh Kesari' Jonti Bhati, 'Uttar Pradesh Kumar' Saurabh, and 'Veer Abhimanyu' Monu with ₹1.01 lakh and a mace, ₹1.01 lakh and a mace, and ₹51,000 and a mace respectively.
Sports Grounds Built in More Than 20,000 Villages
Sports Minister of the state, Girish Chandra Yadav, present at the event, said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, sports have received a new direction in the state. So far, sports grounds have been constructed in more than 20,000 gram panchayats. He said that it is the result of the government's policies that sports talents are now emerging from village to village and are bringing glory to the state and the country.
On this occasion, Mayor Dr. Mangalesh Srivastava, MLC Dr. Dharmendra Singh, MLA Vipin Singh, and many other public representatives and dignitaries were present.
