Uttarakhand CM Inaugurates Fifth State Olympic Games, Unveils New Sports Initiatives

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Fifth State Olympic Games in Rudrapur, marking new initiatives to support athletes. The event celebrated local talent, with policies aiming to elevate them to national and international platforms, including a forthcoming women's sports college and Khel University.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formally inaugurated the Fifth State Olympic Games on Saturday, to be held until September 27 at Manoj Sarkar Sports Stadium, Rudrapur. Upon his arrival after a road show, athletes welcomed Dhami by showering flowers. The CM hoisted the national and Olympic flags and took the salute of the sports teams from various districts, officially kicking off the games by unveiling the mascot and medals.

Congratulating the athletes, district administration, and State Olympic Association, Dhami stated that the event would offer Uttarakhand's players a chance to showcase their talent and inspire them to make their mark on national and international stages. He emphasized that the event is designed to organize various sports competitions, offering a level playing field to dedicated players, including those from remote areas. The CM added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, the state government is committed to establishing Uttarakhand as a leading state in sports. A 'New Sports Policy' has been implemented to encourage sports and players.

As part of this policy, athletes who win medals at national and international levels now receive 'out of turn' government jobs. This year, 31 winning athletes were appointed to government departments, and cash prize money from the Chief Minister's Sports Development Fund has been increased by nearly 100 percent. Dhami also mentioned that residential sports colleges provide free training, education, accommodation, food, and kits. Emerging players receive scholarships through 'Mukhyamantri Udyaman Khiladi Unnayan Yojana' and 'Mukhyamantri Khiladi Protsahan Yojana.'

A financial grant of Rs 10,000 per year is provided for sports equipment, and the grant for sports kits for national-level participants has been increased from Rs 3000 to Rs 5000. Trainer grants have also been enhanced. Facilitation measures for differently-abled players and coaches are also in place. The CM highlighted the 'Himalaya Khel Ratna Award' and re-implementation of a 4 percent sports quota in government jobs. Efforts are ongoing to strengthen sports infrastructure by constructing new grounds and upgrading existing ones to national standards.

Additionally, Dhami announced plans to establish a women's sports college in Champawat at a cost of Rs 264 crore and a forthcoming 'Khel University' to provide world-class training and facilities. The state is preparing to host the upcoming 'National Games,' with infrastructure and training camps being developed accordingly. Dhami encouraged players to aim for medals in state games and shine at national games. He also instructed the District Magistrate to identify land for the Olympic Association's office in Rudrapur.

(With inputs from agencies.)