Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Highlights India’s sports transformation in Kohima
An interaction session with the Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Resource & Sports, Dr Mansukh L Mandaviya, was held at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on December 7.
Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Resource& Sports, Dr. Mansukh L Mandaviya planting a tree at Indira Gandhi Stadium during his visit to Kohima on 7 December 2024. (DIPR)
Speaking at the session, Dr Mansukh L Mandaviya highlighted India’s rich history in sports and its legacy of producing some of the world’s greatest athletes. He emphasized that to nurture such talent, having robust sports infrastructure is crucial. He noted that India’s sports infrastructure has significantly improved in recent years.
The Union Minister further stated that India has a vibrant sporting culture, supported by numerous initiatives from both the government and the private sector aimed at developing sports infrastructure nationwide. However, he acknowledged that challenges remain in making sports accessible to all and fostering the development of young talent. Dr Mansukh underlined the importance of promoting grassroots-level sports to ensure a steady flow of emerging athletes.
He stressed the need for sustained investment by the government and private sector in building new sports facilities and maintaining existing ones. This, he said, would help cultivate a sporting culture that nurtures young talent and elevates India’s global sporting image. Dr Mansukh remarked that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the field of sports over the last decade. Unlike earlier times when sports development received limited attention, the current administration has adopted a proactive and comprehensive approach to reshaping the sports ecosystem through key initiatives.
Dr Mansukh cited the Khelo India Program, launched in 2018, which focuses on promoting grassroots sports and identifying young talent across the country. This program aims to build a pipeline of athletes capable of competing at national and international levels. Similarly, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), launched in 2014, provides funding and support to elite athletes with the potential to win Olympic medals, focusing on enhancing their performance at major international competitions.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s recognition of the growing potential of e-sports. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, e-sports are being leveraged not only as a form of entertainment but also as a means to create new opportunities for youth, foster innovation, and drive economic growth.
During the session, Dr Mansukh interacted with officials from the Labour & Employment Department, the Youth Resource & Sports Department, the Nagaland Olympic Association, and various state sports associations.
Mokokchung Times