Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his support for the growing involvement of women in sports during the MP Khel Mahakumbh event in Lucknow. He highlighted Lucknow’s strong sporting heritage and emphasized the importance of nurturing this culture through initiatives like the MP Khel Mahakumbh. Singh also mentioned plans to enhance sports facilities in Lucknow to further promote sports activities.
Singh noted the development of modern sports infrastructure in rural areas, with significant investments being made in sports projects across Uttar Pradesh. He commended the ‘Khelo India’ program for encouraging more girls to participate in sports, especially through events like the ‘Khelo India Women’s League’ held in various cities nationwide.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the MP Khel Mahakumbh event concluded in Lucknow, attracting thousands of young participants for various sports activities. Singh highlighted the government’s substantial investment of nearly Rs 5,000 crore in sports infrastructure through the Khelo India campaign, aiming to facilitate greater access to sports for aspiring athletes.
Singh emphasized the transformative impact of sports in India, not only in elevating the country’s status as a sporting powerhouse but also in fostering societal empowerment through sports. He mentioned the integration of sports into the National Education Policy and the establishment of the National Sports University to further support sports development in the country. Additionally, initiatives like Khelo India have revitalized traditional Indian sports and are providing scholarships to promote diverse disciplines such as Gatka, Mallakhamb, Thang-Ta, Kalaripayattu, and Yogasan.
