Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, addressing a vibrant gathering in Gorakhpur on Thursday, made a compelling call to the youth of the nation to actively participate in sports. He emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions every young Indian to be connected with at least one sport, as playing games leads to personal flourishing.
Champions Honored at Kabaddi Tournament
The Chief Minister was speaking at the prize distribution ceremony for the Brahmaleen Mahant Avedyanath Ji Maharaj 7th All-India Prize Money Men's Kabaddi Tournament 2025, held at the Regional Stadium. He presented the champion Uttar Pradesh team with a trophy, medals, and a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh. The runners-up, North Eastern Railway (NER), received a trophy, medals, and Rs 1 lakh. Haryana and Andhra Pradesh, who jointly secured the third position, were each awarded a trophy and Rs 50,000.
Yogi Adityanath praised kabaddi for instilling crucial qualities like agility, team spirit, and discipline, which he termed essential for nation-building. The tournament this year saw participation from 12 teams, featuring 168 players and 24 coaches.
Building a Sporting Nation from the Ground Up
The CM outlined the state and central government's concerted efforts to revitalize sports culture in India. He noted that over the past 11 years, inspired by PM Modi's vision, the country has witnessed a renewed enthusiasm for sports, reflected in improved performances at the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and world championships.
Detailing Uttar Pradesh's expanding infrastructure, Yogi stated that a stadium is being developed in every district and mini stadiums at the block level. Eighteen government colleges are currently receiving Rs 5 crore each for upgrading sports facilities, while grants are also being provided to schools and colleges to encourage grassroots-level sports.
He highlighted the development of the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut as a major centre of excellence. Furthermore, villages are being equipped with playgrounds and open gyms to ensure access for all.
Government Jobs for Medal Winners & Focus on School Games
In a significant incentive, the Chief Minister reiterated the state government's policy of assuring government jobs to sportspersons who win medals at international events. So far, this policy has benefited over 500 players who have been appointed to various posts.
Later, at the Veer Bahadur Singh Sports College, the CM felicitated winners of the Greco-Roman category of the 69th National School Games 2025. He awarded medals and prizes to winners in the under-17 and under-19 categories. Encouraging these young athletes, he urged them to aim for a podium finish at the 2030 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to be hosted in Ahmedabad.
Yogi Adityanath concluded by stating that sports is not merely a diversion but a powerful tool for the all-round development of youth. He rooted this in Indian tradition, which emphasizes a healthy body as the foundation of all achievements. "A strong, disciplined, and fit youth force is essential for building an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat," he asserted, adding that victory begins with self-confidence and continuous effort.
