(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini kicked off the second phase of the sixth state-level Khel Mahakumbh-2025 on Thursday in Panchkula. The event brings together thousands of young athletes, spotlighting the state’s push to become a top sports hub in India and beyond.
Saini also celebrated the winners of the 74th All India Police Wrestling Cluster at the Haryana Police Academy in Madhuban. Speaking at the Tau Devi Lal Sports Stadium, he shared Haryana’s big sports vision. Over the last 10 years, the state has focused on getting every child into sports, building playgrounds in villages, and opening doors for passionate young athletes.
“Compete with real sports spirit and give it your all,” Saini urged the players. Minister of State for Sports Gaurav Gautam joined him at the launch.
Saini called Khel Mahakumbh more than just a competition—it’s a launchpad for Haryana youth dreams and the state’s drive for sports excellence. The event started in 2017 during Haryana’s Golden Jubilee year, and this marks the sixth edition. The first phase in August drew 15,410 athletes across 26 sports from August 2 to 4. Now, the second phase features 9,959 competitors in various events.
Every athlete dreams of representing India, Saini said, but it takes steady practice, discipline, and confidence to get there. That’s why the government keeps hosting these meets to sharpen skills and build talent.
He nodded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of turning India into a sports superpower by the 2036 Olympics, with hopes of hosting the Games here. “I’m sure Haryana athletes will grab the most medals and make the nation proud,” Saini added. The state aims for every village to produce a star who shines on the global stage, and events like Khel Mahakumbh are key steps forward.
To boost sports talent, Haryana runs 1,489 sports nurseries where 37,225 young athletes train from an early age. Kids get financial help and pro coaching. Those aged 8 to 14 earn a monthly stipend of Rs 1,500, while teens 15 to 19 get Rs 2,000. Instructors receive up to Rs 25,000 honorarium. The 2021 Haryana Outstanding Players Service Rules ensure top athletes land secure jobs, with 550 new posts in the Sports Department.
Saini honored eight Haryana Paralympians from last year’s Paris Games, handing out Rs 42 crore in incentives for their five golds and three silvers. He also awarded Rs 3.56 crore to 31 standout coaches. Plus, certificates went to national games gold winners, top sports nursery leaders, and more from the department.
Gautam highlighted that this phase of Khel Mahakumbh 2025 will see 9,959 athletes battle in 17 sports over three days across districts. He praised Haryana’s sports policy as the nation’s best, crediting players’ grit and state support for their wins at home and abroad. Under Saini’s lead, the Haryana Olympic Games return in November after a 15-year break.
In other news, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav launched the MP Sports Festival 2025 at a school in Bhopal. He stressed how grassroots efforts like this build a strong sports culture statewide.
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