1000 New Khelo India Centers To Empower Young Talents Nationwide: Sports Minister’s Initiative
India, 28th July 2023: According to Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, India has aspirations to host the Olympics in the future and aims to become a sporting superpower by organizing high-quality tournaments across various disciplines. He made these statements in response to a query about India potentially hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following Australia’s Victoria state’s withdrawal due to rising costs.
Thakur emphasized the progress India has made in sports, highlighting the strong performances of Indian athletes and the increasing accountability and professionalism within sports federations. He mentioned these points during the opening ceremony of the Asian Junior and Youth Weightlifting Championships, which India is hosting for the first time from July 28 to August 5 at the Gautam Buddha University.
Hosting events like the Asian Championships and the recently organized Commonwealth Senior, Junior, and Youth Weightlifting Championship showcase India’s ability to hold significant tournaments. Thakur believes that such opportunities will enhance India’s reputation and lead to hosting even more prestigious events like the World Championships in the future.
The minister disclosed that the eagerly awaited roster for the upcoming Asian Games in China will be unveiled in a short while. Despite certain challenges, he has decided that Indian football teams will participate in the games.
In addition to hosting tournaments, Thakur mentioned the government’s focus on establishing 1000 new Khelo India centers by the end of the year. These centers will contribute to promoting sports and developing young talents across the country.
