Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, opened the 5th Meghalaya Games at Tura, Meghalaya, on January 15, 2024. Citing the Northeast’s rich history of a robust sports culture, the President emphasized in her speech the region’s enormous potential for the growth of sports and athletes.
The President of India, Shri Narendra Modi, emphasized the importance of diversity in the sports arena, particularly in the North East region. She highlighted the potential of adventure sports and adventure tourism in the region. The government’s initiatives, such as Khelo India, are helping to identify and nurture future sports champions. The President also urged children and youth to learn sports to inculcate team spirit and competitiveness. The government’s decision to hold events in different states is a welcome step, promoting excellence and a vibrant sporting ecosystem.
The Meghalaya Games’ Fifth Edition in Tura Breaks Records
The Meghalaya Games’ fifth edition is significant historically in several ways. It is noteworthy since it is the first time that it has been hosted in Tura, as opposed to its prior exclusive site in Shillong. This edition is unique in that it is the first to have the inauguration conducted by the President of India. It also adds traditional indigenous games to its schedule.
The President of Meghalaya has urged children and youth to participate in sports activities, promoting team spirit and competitiveness. She believes that participating in sports activities will keep them physically and mentally fit. The government’s decision to hold Meghalaya Games in different parts of the state ensures wider reach among the masses, encouraging athletes for excellence and creating a vibrant sporting ecosystem.
India’s Progress in Sports and Government Proposals
Droupadi Murmu praised India’s sporting culture, highlighting the government’s initiatives and increased support for athletes. The Khelo India scheme, launched in 2018, aims to develop sporting infrastructure at the grassroots level, identifying and nurturing future sports champions. The President highlighted India’s ability to host large-scale international sporting events, showcasing the nation’s global prowess. The scheme provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills.
The President of India emphasized the need to utilize diversity in the sports arena to boost India’s global image. She highlighted the need to support talent from tribal areas and groom them to become professional sportspersons. The North East region has produced many great women athletes, and the President highlighted the potential of adventure sports and adventure tourism, urging priority exploration and leveraging.
