CM Yogi Adityanath Calls on Universities to Embrace Sports for Youth Development
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a strong appeal to universities and colleges on Friday. He asked them to adopt at least one sport and nurture talent systematically. Speaking in Gorakhpur, he emphasized that a robust sports culture shapes disciplined, confident, and socially responsible young people.
Inaugurating Women's Basketball Championship
Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the East Zone Inter-University Women's Basketball Championship. The event took place at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University. He stated that active sports participation helps steer youth away from drugs and social evils. It also strengthens character and teamwork among participants.
The Chief Minister referred to India's growing presence in international sports. He said preparations must begin now for hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030. Yogi expressed hope that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India would host the Olympics in 2036. He stressed that sports form an essential pillar in India's journey to become a developed nation by 2047.
Uttar Pradesh's Major Steps in Sports Promotion
Yogi highlighted several government initiatives to promote sports in Uttar Pradesh. The state has established its first sports university in Meerut. Meerut is also being developed as a sports equipment manufacturing hub under the ODOP scheme.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for revitalizing sports over the past eleven years. Initiatives like Khelo India, Fit India, and Sansad Khel Pratiyogita have played key roles. Sports infrastructure in UP has expanded rapidly across the state.
Infrastructure developments include:- Playgrounds in every gram panchayat
- Open gyms and mini-stadiums
- District-level stadiums
Incentives and Support for Sportspersons
The Chief Minister detailed significant incentives for athletes in Uttar Pradesh. Athletes qualifying for the Olympics receive Rs 10 lakh and sports kits from the state government. Gold medallists in individual events get Rs 6 crore along with a Class-I government job. Team event gold medallists receive Rs 3 crore.
Silver and bronze medallists also receive substantial financial incentives. More than 500 sportspersons have been provided government jobs so far. Six posts are being reserved directly for players, including deputy superintendent of police and tehsildar positions.
Distribution of Sports Kits and Grassroots Development
Yogi Adityanath emphasized that sports should become part of daily life, not just a formality. To promote this, over 96,000 sports kits have been distributed to Yuva Mangal Dals and Mahila Mangal Dals across Uttar Pradesh. He noted that before 2014, sports was not a government priority, leading many players to abandon their dreams.
"But today, sports competitions are being organized from villages to cities," he said. "A healthy body is essential for achieving any goal in life, and that comes through discipline and regular physical activity."
CM's Personal Engagement at the Event
During the inaugural program, Yogi Adityanath personally engaged with the basketball event. He bounced the ball twice on the court and took a shot at the basket. His actions drew roaring applause from players and spectators. The Chief Minister also watched part of the opening match, applauding and encouraging women players.
The tournament features 31 university teams from 14 states of the eastern region. It will continue until January 19, showcasing competitive basketball at the inter-university level.
