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Guwahati, 19 February (HS). Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that this edition of Khelo India University Games will add another chapter to the rich sports heritage of the state. The Chief Minister was addressing the opening ceremony of Ashtalakshmi, the fourth edition of Khelo India University Games 2023, at the Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati on Monday. He said that our state has a proud legacy of hosting major sporting events including the National Games in 2007. 12th South Asian Games, FIFA U-17 World Cup, AIBA World Women's Youth Boxing Championship, Premier Badminton League, National School Games, Khelo India Youth Games etc. in 2016.
Expressing his eagerness to host the next edition of the National Games in the state, Chief Minister Dr Sarma on Monday cited the state's glorious legacy in hosting major sporting events. Also highlighted his government's commitment to fulfill the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During this, he mentioned the huge investment in the development of sports.
“Assam has a great sporting heritage, and I believe that in the coming years, more and more players from the state will bring glory to the country and contribute to the sporting history of the country,” he said.
“Assam hosted the National Games for the first time in 2007, but I would request the central government to give Assam the opportunity to host the National Games in 2025 or 2026,” he said.
Underscoring the commitment of the State Government to develop sports infrastructure across the State, the Chief Minister said that work has begun towards construction of sports complexes in all the districts and 126 assembly constituencies across the State.
“For the last three years, Assam has been investing heavily in sports development to fulfill the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Accordingly, we have allocated Rs 800 crore to upgrade the Nehru Stadium in Guwahati into a world-class football stadium. Besides, two sports complexes are also being built in Amingaon and Chandrapur. Additionally, our government has allocated Rs 50 crore to develop sports complexes in each district, and also Rs 12 crore to develop sports complexes in each of the 126 assembly constituencies.”
Announcing the start of the Games, Chief Minister Dr Sarma urged the citizens to treat every athlete participating in the Khelo India University Games, 2023 warmly. “Assam is known for its hospitality. Come! Let us welcome every athlete coming to Assam with the same warmth. With these words, I declare the Games open.”
Earlier, 2019 World Championship bronze medalist Jamuna Bodo handed over the ceremonial torch to Chief Minister Dr Sarma.
This edition of KIUG will see around 4,000 athletes competing for a total of 262 gold medals across 20 sports disciplines over the next fortnight. The competitions will be held across 18 venues in Guwahati and six other north eastern cities from February 19-29.
The grand inauguration ceremony was attended by Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Anurag Singh Thakur, Assam Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Nandita Garlosa along with many other dignitaries.
Guwahati will host a total of 16 disciplines during the Khelo India University Games 2023, which include athletics, rugby, basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, hockey, fencing, kabaddi, women's football, tennis, mallakhamb, judo, table tennis, women's boxing, and Shooting is included. The rest of the north-eastern cities will host six events, namely: archery, men's football, men's boxing, weightlifting, wrestling and yoga.
The colorful inaugural ceremony also saw a performance by renowned singer and artist Angraag Mahant, popularly known as Papon, and a dance performance showcasing the rich tradition of the vibrant region, which exemplifies unity, diversity and sportsmanship. The essence of was also highlighted.