CM Yogi Adityanath urges universities and colleges to adopt sports, promoting youth development, discipline, and keeping students away from addiction.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday inaugurated the Eastern Region Inter-University Women’s Basketball Competition at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, emphasizing the importance of sports for youth development and societal well-being.
Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi highlighted that promoting sports activities can keep young people away from addiction and other social evils. He urged universities and colleges to “adopt at least one sport” and nurture talent in that field. Through sports, he said, students can develop discipline, competitive spirit, and a healthy lifestyle, contributing to a robust and progressive India by 2047.
UP’s Sports Infrastructure and Initiatives
CM Yogi noted that Uttar Pradesh has made significant strides in developing sports infrastructure. The state’s first sports university has been established in Meerut, which manufactures various sports items, now included in the government’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. Over the past decade, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has seen a remarkable transformation in its sports culture, with initiatives like Khelo India, Fit India, and MP Sports Competitions promoting nationwide athletic participation.
“Sports are no longer optional; they are an essential aspect of life,” CM Yogi said, quoting the ancient Indian adage, “Shariramadyam khalu dharmasadhanam” — all life’s accomplishments are rooted in a healthy body. He emphasized that regular physical activity, adherence to rules, and discipline are crucial for the overall well-being of individuals and society.
Encouraging Equal Opportunities and Talent Recognition
Highlighting social progress, CM Yogi said many states now ensure no discrimination between boys and girls in sports. Parents actively support children pursuing their interests in various games by providing the necessary resources. To institutionalize sports across the state, Uttar Pradesh has established playgrounds, open gyms, mini stadiums at the block level, and full-scale stadiums at the district level. Over 96,000 youth and women’s sports teams have received kits from the state government to promote daily engagement in sports.
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Government Incentives for Athletes
CM Yogi also detailed financial and employment incentives for athletes. Olympic participants from the state receive ₹10 lakh, with gold medalists in individual events awarded ₹6 crore along with Class-I government jobs. Team gold medalists in the Olympics receive ₹3 crore, and silver medalists in individual events also receive ₹3 crore. Over 500 medal-winning athletes have already been appointed to government positions, including Deputy SP, Tehsildar, and Regional Sports Officer posts.
Preparing for International Events
CM Yogi urged athletes to start preparations for major upcoming events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Gujarat and the 2036 Olympics. He praised Prime Minister Modi’s active involvement in sports and encouragement for Indian teams, emphasizing that consistent support and early preparation are essential for winning international medals.
Welcoming Women Athletes from Across India
The Chief Minister also welcomed women basketball players from 14 states on the sacred land of Guru Gorakhnath, lauding Gorakhpur’s cultural, spiritual, and historical significance. He mentioned the district’s role in India’s freedom struggle, its association with luminaries like Pandit Ram Prasad Bismil, and its literary heritage as the workplace of Munshi Premchand. During the event, CM Yogi also released the Gorakhpur University Sports Council’s annual sports booklet, showcasing achievements and initiatives in regional sports development.
With a strong focus on sports, youth empowerment, and community engagement, CM Yogi’s address highlighted how integrating physical education in academic institutions can create healthier, disciplined, and socially responsible citizens for a developed India by 2047.
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