Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Inaugurates Fifth State Olympic Games in Rudrapur

Udham Singh Nagar (Uttarakhand), September 22: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has inaugurated the Fifth State Olympic Games at Manoj Sarkar Sports Stadium, Rudrapur. The games will conclude on September 27.

The Chief Minister hoisted the national and state Olympic flags and took the salute of the march past of the sports teams from various districts. He also unveiled the mascot of the games.

CM Dhami was welcomed with flower showers as he arrived at the stadium. He congratulated the players, district administration, and State Olympic Association, stating that this event will give Uttarakhand players a chance to showcase their talent and inspire them to establish their identity at national and international levels.

He emphasized that the event aims to organize various sports competitions and provide a level platform for all dedicated players, including those from remote areas of Uttarakhand. This will help them give a new direction to their sports careers.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Dhami said that the state government is working towards making Uttarakhand a leading state in sports. A ‘New Sports Policy’ has been implemented to encourage sports and players. Under this policy, ‘out of turn’ government jobs are given to players who win medals at national and international levels. This year, 31 medal-winning players have been appointed in government departments, and the cash prize money has been increased by almost 100 percent.

Free training, education, accommodation, food, and kits are being provided to players in residential sports colleges. Scholarships are given to emerging players through ‘Mukhyamantri Udyaman Khiladi Unnayan Yojana’ and ‘Mukhyamantri Khiladi Protsahan Yojana.’ Players receive Rs 10,000 per year for sports equipment, and the amount for sports kits for national level competitions has been increased from Rs 3000 to Rs 5000. Facilities are also provided to Divyang players and trainers.

The government has introduced the ‘Himalaya Khel Ratna Award’ along with Uttarakhand Khel Ratna and Dronacharya Awards. A 4 percent sports quota has been re-implemented in government jobs. Sports infrastructure is being strengthened with new sports grounds and the development of existing ones to national standards.

A women’s sports college will be established in Champawat at a cost of Rs 264 crore. A ‘Khel University’ will also be set up to provide world-class training and facilities. Uttarakhand has the opportunity to host the upcoming ‘National Games,’ and infrastructure and training camps are being developed for this event. Players performing well in state games will get opportunities to participate in national games.

CM Dhami directed the District Magistrate to identify land for the office of the Olympic Association in Rudrapur.