KHELO INDIA YOUTH GAMES 2023

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Picture Courtesy: www.narendramodi.in

Context: The Prime Minister inaugurated the 13th Khelo India Youth Games 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, on January 19, 2024.

Details

• The Prime Minister inaugurated the opening ceremony of the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, marking the beginning of the 13th Khelo India Games.
• During the event, he also launched and laid the foundation stone for projects related to the Broadcasting sector, amounting to about Rs 250 crores.

Key points from his address and the event:

• The Prime Minister stated that the Khelo India Youth Games serve as a great way to start 2024. He acknowledged the energy and spirit of the young athletes, representing a new India that is excelling in the world of sports.
• Highlighting Tamil Nadu's rich history of producing sports champions, the Prime Minister mentioned notable figures such as the Amritraj Brothers, Bhaskaran (India’s Hockey captain), Vishwanathan Anand, Praggnanandhaa, and Mariyappan. He expressed confidence that athletes will draw inspiration from the state.
• Emphasizing the importance of exposure for athletes, the Prime Minister highlighted the role of big sporting events in the country. He mentioned the Khelo India Abhiyan as a platform for finding talent at the grassroots level.
• He provided details about the Khelo India Youth Games, mentioning the participation of athletes from all 36 states and union territories.
• He highlighted the mascot, Veera Mangai Velu Nachiyar, as a symbol of women's power. He acknowledged her influence on government decisions and initiatives to empower sportswomen, including women's leagues and projects like 'Das kas Dam.'
• He emphasized providing international exposure to India's young athletes and making the country a significant centre in the global sports ecosystem.

Conclusion

• The Prime Minister declared the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 open and expressed optimism about India's progress in various sectors, including sports. The event aimed to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and provide a platform for budding talents across the country.