Haldwani: Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami, who arrived in Haldwani on Friday, inaugurated the Asian Cadet Cup Fencing Competition by lighting the lamp at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium, Gaulapar.
In his address, congratulating all participants in this important event, the Honorable Chief Minister said that through their discipline, hard work, and positive thinking, all the players will not only achieve new heights in sports, but will also set an example for society and contribute to fulfilling our “optionless resolve” to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country in all fields. He said that the state government will continue to work in this manner in the future to promote sports in the state. He urged all athletes to remain vigilant about environmental protection and ensure their own contribution to tree plantation, water conservation, and cleanliness, as well as to raise awareness among society. He also emphasized the importance of being aware of the ill effects of drug abuse and instilling awareness in the younger generation. He emphasized that when a fit individual preaches the message of de-addiction, that message reaches every youth. He added that the state government is encouraging emerging young athletes through programs such as the “Chief Minister’s Sports Development Fund,” the “Chief Minister’s Sports Incentive Scheme,” the “Chief Minister’s Emerging Players Scheme,” and the “Sports Kit Scheme.” He also recognized their talents by awarding the “Uttarakhand Khel Ratna Award” and the “Himalaya Khel Ratna Award.” Furthermore, the 4% sports quota for athletes in state government services has been reinstated, ensuring that the hard work and excellence of the state’s athletes receive appropriate opportunity and recognition. The Chief Minister also noted that on the occasion of National Sports Day, outstanding athletes from the state were also awarded honorariums of ₹50 lakh each.
The Chief Minister stated that the government has implemented a new sports policy to promote the overall development of sports in the state and encourage sportspersons. Under this policy, medal-winning athletes at the national and international levels are being provided “out-of-turn” government jobs.
The Chief Minister stated that efforts are underway to expand Pantnagar Airport and that he has requested the Honorable Railway Minister to provide new trains to provide better transportation facilities to travelers, tourists, and athletes.
The Chief Minister stated that the government is working diligently to fulfill its commitment to establish Uttarakhand’s first sports university and women’s sports college in Haldwani. The university’s establishment will also establish a distinct identity in the field of sports education. Given the growing sports activity here, local businesses will also benefit in the future, and tourist facilities will also improve.
He stated that Uttarakhand athletes have created history by winning 103 medals and securing 7th place in the National Games for the first time. Efforts have been made to develop world-class sports infrastructure in the state at a cost of Rs 517 crore. As a result, Uttarakhand has become an important venue for not only national but also international sports competitions, a prime example of which is the Asian Cadet Cup. He said that the government will soon implement a “Sports Legacy Plan” in the state, under which 23 sports academies will be established in eight major cities of the state. He said that Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi is continuously working to promote sports culture in the country through programs like “Khelo India” and “Fit India Movement.” Under his leadership, India is reaching new heights in sports and establishing its unique identity on the global stage. Under his guidance, the state government is also making continuous efforts to promote sports culture and encourage athletes in the state.
He said that the sport of fencing in its modern form began quite late in India and has not received as much encouragement as other sports. However, fencing has rapidly gained popularity in the last few years, and after Arjuna Award-winning Bhavani Devi’s medals at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, the youth’s interest in it has increased even more. Today, youth are not only excelling at the national level in this sport, but are also bringing glory to the country on international platforms. Just as India’s flag flies high across the world in sports like shooting, archery, and javelin throw, in the future, our youth will also set new records in fencing with their excellent performances. The art of fencing has existed since the beginning of human civilization. In ancient India, knowledge of both weapons and scriptures was considered a complete education, and in ancient times, “Shastravidya” was an essential part of our education. In our Gurukuls, youth were not only taught the Vedas, Puranas, and scriptures, but also learned to wield the sword, mace, and dagger for self-defense and social protection.
