In a unique event at the India Habitat Centre, sports alphabet booklets were introduced in 21 languages, a pioneering effort to enhance sports literacy among kids. The program, led by Sports: A Way of Life, was overseen by former Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh Governor Kalraj Mishra. Notable figures like hockey player Ashok Dhyanchand and Dr. Milind Pandey, Vice President of the organization, graced the launch ceremony, joined by Members of Parliament nationwide.
The concept, conceived by Kanishka Pandey, President of the organization and a sports researcher, after over a decade of research, aims to nurture a sports culture in India. Pandey highlighted the significance of sports alphabets, drawing parallels to educational foundations for children. These booklets serve a dual purpose by aiding in letter learning and reading skills while fostering an interest in sports.
The initiative targets to enhance sports literacy, promote the synergy between sports and education, instill core sporting values like discipline and leadership at the kindergarten level, and reduce children’s reliance on electronic devices by encouraging outdoor activities. Pandey stressed the complementary nature of sports and education in India, advocating for a combined approach at educational institutions to promote sporting excellence.
Developed in various Indian languages and two foreign languages, the Sports Alphabet Booklets cover a wide linguistic spectrum. The event saw the launch of the Nepali version, attended by Nepal Member of Parliament Abhishek Pratap Shah, who lauded the initiative and proposed its adoption in Nepali primary schools. Former Governor Mishra commended the initiative for showcasing India’s diverse cultural fabric through multilingualism.
Renowned hockey player Dhyanchand praised the initiative as a structured and scientific endeavor to cultivate a sports culture in the nation. Several Members of Parliament, both physically and virtually, including Sulata Deo, Golla Baburao, Seema Dwivedi, and Anurag Sharma, hailed the Sports Alphabet Booklets as a unique tool for youth development and holistic growth. The event witnessed the participation of distinguished personalities from various fields across the country.
