Gorakhpur: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for building a robust sports ecosystem across India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, over the past decade. Addressing the prize distribution ceremony of the 46th Junior National Rowing Championship at Ramgarh Tal, the chief minister highlighted the rapid development of sports infrastructure and sustained encouragement for athletes, which have transformed the state's sporting landscape.
Transformation of Ramgarh Tal
Yogi noted that the transformation of Ramgarh Tal reflects this change. 'Before 2017, people avoided coming here because of filth and crime. Today, national rowing competitions and training camps for women athletes preparing for international events are being organized here,' he said. He added that Ramgarh Tal is emerging as a major water sports hub and will host more rowing and canoeing events in the future.
Government Sports Policy and Achievements
Highlighting the state government's sports policy, Yogi stated that 534 medal-winning athletes from events such as the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games have been given government jobs, while recruitment of 500 more sportspersons is underway. Around 300 rowers from 20 states participated in the championship organized by the Rowing Federation of India.
Yogi emphasized that sports teach discipline, positivity, and team spirit while keeping youth away from drugs and negativity. Quoting poet Sohanlal Dwivedi, he encouraged athletes to face challenges fearlessly and described 'Charaiveti-Charaiveti' (keep moving forward) as life's guiding mantra.
Championship Results
In the championship, Madhya Pradesh won the girls' overall title, while Army Boys Sports Company emerged champions in the boys' category.
