Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik along with Union Ministers Dr RP Nishank, Dharmendra Pradhan and Kiren Rijiju launched the inaugural edition of Khelo India University Games to be held from February 22 to March 1 at KIIT University here.
Speaking on the occasion the Chief Minister said Odisha will ensure that players have a memorable experience at sports capital of India. The KIGU logo, mascot and jersey was also unveiled on the occasion.
About 4,000 athletes from 100 Universities will take part in the mega sporting event, across 17 different disciplines.
The Chief Minister expressed that state-of-the-art infrastructure in the State will offer a great experience to all participants and they will enjoy the warm hospitality.
Union Minister for Youth and Sports Rijju said India will be a sports powerhouse in the coming years.
“To fulfill this ambitious dream, Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs will organize four major national events every year under Khelo India programme. The four events under the tag of Khelo India are Youth games, University games, School games and Indigenous sports or sports for disabled persons,” Rijiju.
Union Minister Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, “The sports clubs and youth associations located in rural areas have huge potential. All efforts should be made to spot out those talents and provide them training and opportunities. The first Khelo India University Games launched from Odisha will set the stage for hunting of talent and development of sports in the country.”
Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank said, “Odisha is known for its art, culture, heritage and sports. Any event that starts from this historic land will definitely touch all heights of success. I am sure this event will play a big role in producing future sports star for our nation.”
