CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Olympic Day Celebration was organized at the Water Sports Center located at Small Lake, Bhopal, under the initiative of the Madhya Pradesh Olympic Association. Sports Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang was present as the chief guest at the Olympic Day event. Olympic Association Secretary Shri Digvijay Singh and President of the Indian Kayaking Canoeing Association Prashant Kushwaha, and President of MP Kayaking Canoeing Association PS Bundela welcomed Hon. Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang with a bouquet of flowers.
‘Games are an important part of life, connecting people all over the world,’ said Vishwas Kailash Sarang.
Addressing the players and youth on the eve of Olympic Day, Vishwas Kailash Sarang stated that sports are a significant part of life, connecting people worldwide. He mentioned that the main objective of the Olympics is to unite people. The purpose of the Olympic movement is to ensure proper development among different countries through healthy competition. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Modi has given new recognition to sports in the country. He has encouraged and boosted the morale of players participating in major events like the Olympics, World Cup, Commonwealth Games, and Asian Games. This is why our players’ participation in these games has increased. Not only are our players participating in these major events, but they are also winning medals. The central government has increased the sports budget and encouraged athletes, creating a positive environment for sports in the country.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, the state government is making tireless efforts to bring sports to the general public. A conducive environment for sports has been created in Madhya Pradesh as well. Players are being encouraged and honored. Our athletes are making the state proud at the national and international levels. Madhya Pradesh ranked fourth in the National Games, which is a record. Our athletes also won four times more medals in the Asian Games compared to the previous time. We will make every effort to provide all possible assistance to the players. We will establish coordination between sports associations and the government to maximize efforts for the development of sports.
Before the minister’s address, Madhya Pradesh Olympic Association Secretary Digvijay Singh, in his welcome address, explained the importance of Olympic Day to the players. He mentioned that modern Olympic Games started in 1896, and the credit for organizing the modern Olympics goes to Pierre de Coubertin. Hence, Olympic Day is celebrated on June 23. The first Olympic Day Celebration was held on June 23, 1948. Since then, Olympic Day has been celebrated annually.
In his address, he mentioned that the theme for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is ‘Let’s Move and Celebrate,’ which is why we are all gathered here today. He expressed his gratitude to Hon. Vishwas Kailash Sarang for taking time out of his busy schedule to be with the children.