The North News
New Delhi, May 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reaffirmed India’s aim to host the Olympic Games in 2036, calling it a long-standing dream of every citizen. Addressing the 7th Khelo India Youth Games through videoconferencing, he praised the thousands of young athletes gathering in Bihar as symbols of rising sporting ambition and national pride. The Prime Minister outlined massive investment in sports infrastructure, stating that India’s sports budget has more than tripled in the past decade, now reaching ₹4,000 crore. Over 1,000 Khelo India Centres, including several in Bihar, are currently operational, with a Sports City under development along the Patna-Gaya highway.
“The sports are no longer limited to medals and matches. They are emerging as a major career engine—creating jobs in physiotherapy, data analytics, e-sports, coaching, law, and broadcasting. A stadium today is not just a ground, it’s a workplace for thousands,” the Prime Minister said. Encouraging young athletes to embody the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, Modi called them brand ambassadors of unity and aspiration. He ended on a warm note, urging visitors to enjoy Bihar’s Litti Chokha and Makhana.
“Khelo India is laying the foundation for this goal,” he said, noting how the government’s focus on school-level scouting, advanced training, and grassroots support is nurturing world-class talent. Describing the event as a “festival of talent”, Modi said over 6,000 athletes will compete across Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai, turning Bihar into a national sports hub. “Their passion and commitment inspire the country. They carry not only their dreams but also the hopes of a new sporting India,” he said.
Highlighting Bihar’s contribution to national sports, he cited the example of Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a young cricket sensation from the state who shone in the IPL. “Exposure to competitions sharpens skill. The more you play, the better you become,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister also emphasized how Khelo India has embraced traditional Indian sports like Gatka, Mallakhamb, and Kalaripayattu, as well as rising disciplines like Sepak Takraw and Roller Skating, helping preserve culture while pushing innovation.
