National Games in Uttarakhand: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, highlighting the state’s youthful energy and the blessings of Baba Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Maa Ganga. Celebrating Uttarakhand’s 25th year of formation, he emphasized the event’s role in fostering national unity under the theme “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat.”
A key focus of this edition was sustainability, as highlighted by the “Green Games” theme. Environmentally friendly materials were used, including medals made from e-waste, and a tree will be planted in honor of each medalist. The Prime Minister lauded these initiatives and extended his best wishes to the athletes.
Shri Modi underscored the transformation of Indian sports through continuous tournaments and initiatives like the Khelo India series, University Games, and Para Games. He noted that sports were no longer just extracurricular activities but viable career paths, with increased government investment, including a tripled sports budget in the last decade and significant funding through the TOPS scheme.
He highlighted India’s growing sports economy, noting that cities like Meerut have become major hubs for sports equipment manufacturing, employing thousands. Additionally, the National Games in Uttarakhand were expected to boost the local economy by attracting visitors from across the country.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence in India’s athletes, citing their growing presence in international sports. He mentioned the resurgence of hockey, recent triumphs in kho-kho and chess, and India’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics, which he sees as a catalyst for infrastructure development and economic growth.
Connecting sports to broader national values, Shri Modi praised Uttarakhand for implementing the Uniform Civil Code, emphasizing its role in fostering equality. He encouraged athletes to embrace the cultural diversity of India while competing in the Games and urged them to support Uttarakhand’s efforts to become plastic-free.
He also stressed the importance of fitness in combating obesity and related health issues, urging citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles through the Fit India Movement. Encouraging daily exercise and mindful eating habits, he advised reducing unhealthy fats and oils for overall well-being.
The 38th National Games are being hosted in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14, spanning 11 cities in 8 districts. The event features 36 state teams and one union territory, with over 10,000 athletes competing in 35 sports disciplines. For the first time, Yoga and Mallakhamb are part of the Games. A “Sports Forest” will be established, where 10,000 saplings will be planted, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability.
The inauguration event was attended by dignitaries including Uttarakhand Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Union Ministers Shri Ajay Tamta and Smt Raksha Khadse. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister declared the Games open and extended his best wishes to all participants.
