PM Modi Highlights Sports Talent Hunt Initiative in Mann Ki Baat

PM Modi Emphasizes Grassroots Sports Development

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the sports talent hunt initiative he announced on Independence Day, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to rural areas and towns to uncover sporting talent. During his monthly Mann Ki Baat broadcast, he praised efforts aimed at enhancing talent at the grassroots level.

The Prime Minister specifically acknowledged the contributions of Rajinder Singh, a former hockey player known for his achievements, including winning a gold medal at the 1980 Olympics and a silver medal at the Asian Games. Under his guidance, India secured victories in the 2001 Junior Men's World Cup and the 2003 Asia Cup, and he was the top scorer in the 1982 Hockey World Cup with 12 goals.

Recognition of Hockey Legend Rajinder Singh

PM Modi stated, "I announced a talent hunt campaign for sports from the Red Fort this time. To ensure India continues to perform excellently, it is essential to reach out to villages and towns to discover sporting talent. At the same time, there are many individuals who have dedicated themselves to this very cause. Their sole passion is to discover talent and shape it."

He highlighted Rajinder Singh's significant role in nurturing young athletes, saying, "In our Punjab, Rajinder Singh ji is doing exactly this work. He was part of the team that won the gold medal in hockey at the 1980 Olympics and excelled at the 1982 World Cup. Under his coaching, India won the Men’s Junior World Cup in 2001 and the Senior Asia Cup in 2003."

Rajinder Singh's Ongoing Commitment to Hockey

The Prime Minister noted that Rajinder Singh is currently pursuing his passion through the Round Glass Hockey Academy. "Thanks to his efforts, new hockey astro-turfs are being laid in villages. Rajinder ji has a very clear focus: identifying children in villages that lack access to excellent coaching facilities. Through such initiatives, many players are securing spots at India's junior and senior levels. No matter how much Rajinder Singh ji’s dedication is lauded, it’s not enough," PM Modi remarked.

Nationwide Talent Hunt for Future Olympic Aspirations

During his Independence Day address, PM Modi announced a nationwide sports talent identification campaign aimed at children aged five to 15 years, as part of India's preparations for a potential bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. Additionally, India is set to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030.