PM Modi Inaugurates 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the 38th edition of the National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, on January 28, 2025. The prestigious event brings together over 10,000 athletes competing across 38 teams for the ultimate sports honors.

Held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, the inauguration ceremony was a grand affair. Olympic badminton star Lakshya Sen had the honor of carrying the National Games torch, delivering it to the stage where PM Modi, along with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh, and other dignitaries, awaited its arrival.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Modi expressed his excitement for the event, calling it a "celebration of India's extraordinary sporting talent." In a post on social media, he emphasized the spirit of athletes coming together from across the nation, underlining how the Games serve as a platform to showcase the country's diverse sports prowess.

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Modi highlighted the significance of the event in the context of Uttarakhand's 25th anniversary. "This is not only a major sporting event but also a celebration of the youth of India, who will showcase their talent in this young and dynamic state," he remarked.

A key feature of this year’s National Games is the introduction of "Green Games." PM Modi shared how the event is environmentally conscious, with all trophies and balls made from e-waste. Additionally, a tree will be planted in honor of the winners, further promoting sustainability. Modi also took the opportunity to underscore the importance of indigenous traditional games, which are being featured this year.

Further emphasizing India's growing commitment to sports, Modi shared the nation's aspirations of hosting the 2036 Olympic Games. He noted the recent triumphs of Indian athletes, including the gold medal win by the Kho-Kho team and the world chess championship victory of Gukesh D. Modi pointed out the shifting mindset where young Indians are increasingly viewing sports as a viable career choice rather than just an extracurricular activity.

The National Games will take place over an 18-day period, drawing athletes and officials from across the country. Events will unfold in multiple locations, including Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Haldwani, Rudrapur, Shivpuri, and New Tehri.

The competition will feature a broad range of Olympic sports, including athletics, wrestling, swimming, hockey, boxing, badminton, weightlifting, football, tennis, and table tennis. In addition to these traditional events, the Games will also host demonstration sports like Kalarippayattu, Yogasana, Mallakhamb, and Rafting, allowing athletes to showcase a wide array of skills and talents.

This year’s National Games not only promises fierce competition but also embodies a larger vision of unity, sustainability, and the promotion of sports across India.

#WATCH | Dehradun: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the 38th National Games.

(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/elsL1xzc9X

— ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2025