Uttarakhand CM Launches MP Sports Festival to Enhance Local Sports Culture
Inauguration of the MP Sports Festival
On December 22, in Almora, Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami officially opened the MP Sports Festival. During the event, he kicked off competitions in football and badminton and recognized international cricketer Ekta Bisht, along with various sports coaches, for their significant contributions to sports.
The Chief Minister unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at improving sports infrastructure and promoting energy sustainability in the Almora district, according to a press release.
New Sports Facilities and Initiatives
Plans include the construction of a multi-purpose artificial turf ground for hockey and football at the GIC Ground, which will be suitable for both daytime and nighttime use. To enhance lighting and promote renewable energy, 200 solar lights will be installed throughout the municipal area. Furthermore, a 50-bed hostel is set to be built at the Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Stadium, and the existing badminton court will be upgraded to international standards.
Empowering Youth Through Sports
In his address, Dhami emphasized that the youth of India represent the nation’s most valuable asset, capable of realizing the vision of a strong and self-reliant country through dedication and talent. He acknowledged that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the potential of youth is being recognized as a vital national force, with ongoing efforts to foster a developed and self-sufficient India.
He stated that the MP Sports Festival, themed "Fit Youth for a Developed India," is more than just a sporting event; it is a movement aimed at cultivating a sports culture across the country.
Strengthening Sports Culture in Uttarakhand
Dhami pointed out that initiatives like Khelo India and the Fit India Movement, championed by Prime Minister Modi, have inspired Uttarakhand to enhance its sports culture. He noted that the state gained recognition by hosting the 38th National Games, where athletes achieved a remarkable total of 103 medals. Uttarakhand is now positioning itself as a leader in developing world-class sports infrastructure and hosting both national and international sporting events.
Future Plans for Sports Development
The Chief Minister announced the upcoming launch of a Sports Legacy Plan, which will establish 23 sports academies across eight major cities in the state. Additionally, efforts are underway to create Uttarakhand's first Sports University in Haldwani and a Women's Sports College in Lohaghat. A new sports policy has also been introduced to support the comprehensive development of sports and encourage athletes, including providing government jobs to medal winners at national and international levels.
Through various initiatives such as the Chief Minister Sports Development Fund, Chief Minister Player Incentive Scheme, Chief Minister Emerging Player Scheme, and the Sports Kit Scheme, ongoing support is being provided to promising young athletes in the state.
Infrastructure Development in Almora
The Chief Minister also highlighted several key projects aimed at enhancing tourism, employment, and connectivity for Almora's overall development. Over the last four years, more than 250 kilometers of roads have been constructed in the district under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. To boost tourism and improve connectivity, helicopter services have been introduced in Almora under the Udaan Scheme. Additionally, a reservoir project on the Gagas River is in progress to strengthen the drinking water supply.