In 50 years’ time don’t be surprised if Gujarat is recognised by its sportspersons instead of its business honchos. Chief minister Narendra Modi has promised to build a Sports University in the state that will produce champions in future.
In 50 years’ time don’t be surprised if Gujarat is recognised by its sportspersons instead of its business honchos. Chief minister Narendra Modi has promised to build a Sports University in the state that will produce champions in future.
Modi made this announcement at the closing ceremony of Khel Mahakumbh 2010 at Police Stadium in Shahibaug, Ahmedabad on Wednesday.
“Gujarat has been contributing a lot to the country’s progress. Now let us produce sportspersons also. To make it happen, we plan to build a sports university in Gujarat where our national star performers over the years will be faculty members,” announced Modi, who received thundering applause from the 10,000 plus sports aficionados who had gathered for the grand finale of the state’s sports extravaganza.
Modi admitted that till date sport was neglected in the wealthiest state of the country. “Generally sports used to be last of all the priorities (in government). But enthusiasm of these youngsters have now put it at the top and we would like to take it to next level,” he said.
The architect of Khel Mahakumbh termed the carnival as a steppingstone towards developing a sports culture across the state. “The main reason of hosting the mega event where more than 13 lakhs participated is to develop a sports culture. I wanted our future sportspersons to get some inspiration from the athletes who did us proud at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. That is why we called them here and honored them. We want to create a sporting atmosphere,” said Modi while referring to the august gallery of sportspersons seated in the front row.
Discus thrower Krishna Poonia, long distance runner Preeja Sreedharan, archer Rahul Banerjee, hockey captain Rajpal Singh and swimmer Veerdhawal Khade were among 19 players honored by the Gujarat government with a cash prize of Rs1 lakh each.
Not stopping at this year’s Khel Mahakumbh, Modi has assured similar mega sports meets every year. “These young players are our prize possessions. We would like to nourish them with awards and opportunities to make them champions. And so we will organise similar Khel Mahakumbhs every year,” he said after giving away the prizes to the winners.
Ahmedabad City won the overall championship with Surat City and Vadodara City taking the second and third positions respectively.
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