CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed sports enthusiasts from across the country during the closing ceremony of the Sansad Khel Mahotsav on the occasion of the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna awardee late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Prime Minister also interacted virtually with athletes.

The closing and prize distribution ceremony for the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency was held at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium.

On this occasion, Madhya Pradesh Sports and Cooperative Minister Vishwas Sarang, Minister of State for Backward Classes and Minority Welfare Krishna Gaur, Member of Parliament Alok Sharma, former Union Minister Suresh Pachouri, MLAs Bhagwandas Sabnani and Rameshwar Sharma, Mayor Malti Rai, BJP District President Ravindra Yati, former MLA Dhruv Narayan Singh, former MP Alok Sanjar, Municipal Corporation Chairman Kishan Suryavanshi, SAGE Group Chairman Sanjeev Agrawal, former Olympian Sameer Dada, along with other public representatives, honored winners and runners-up of various levels of sports competitions by presenting trophies and certificates of appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, MP Alok Sharma said that the Sansad Khel Mahotsav would provide rural-level talent with greater opportunities to move forward. He added that India is set to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, and young athletes should begin their preparations from now.

Folk Dance and Band Performances

The Sansad Khel Mahotsav created a festive atmosphere in Bhopal. Traditional folk dance performances and band presentations at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium became major attractions. During the prize distribution ceremony, colorful balloons were released into the sky.

Crores of Youth Connected with Prime Minister Modi’s Vision

Crores of young people across the country have become associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision through the Sansad Khel Mahotsav. In his address, the Prime Minister said that the mindset of parents and society towards sports is also changing. The enthusiasm of “Gen Z” for sports will become a source of strength for the nation. He emphasized that there are numerous opportunities for youth to progress through sports. Initiatives such as Fit India, School Games, University Games, and the Sansad Khel Mahotsav are providing platforms for young people to showcase their talent and advance. Youth development is becoming a strong pillar of nation-building. Experiencing defeat before victory makes individuals capable and disciplined, and such possibilities are continuously expanding in the country.

Winners Beamed with Joy After Receiving Awards

MP Alok Sharma informed that under the Sansad Khel Mahotsav in the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, around 76,000 participants registered on the portal. The enthusiasm and performances of athletes from rural areas such as Sehore and Berasia infused new energy among the youth. While traditional sports like wrestling and kabaddi revealed emerging talent, players from cricket, athletics, badminton, football, and hockey also showcased their skills. Youth participation at school and block levels across Govindpura, Huzur, Central, South-West, Narela, and North assembly constituencies was highly impressive.

Three Levels of Sports Competitions

Under the Sansad Khel Mahotsav, the event in Bhopal was inaugurated on September 24 by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav. Over the next three months, sports competitions were organized at three levels—village level, block level, and Lok Sabha level.

#YouthSports #RuralTalent #GrassrootsSports #SportsDevelopment #ChangingMindsets #YoungAthletes