Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the ‘Khelo India University Games 2023 Ashtalakshmi’ (KIUG 2023), being held across the seven northeastern states via a video message. During his address, the Prime Minister, who often calls the northeastern states Ashtalakshmi, while highlighting the mascot, “Ashtalakshmi,” of the KIUG 2023, in the shape of a butterfly, said that making a butterfly the mascot in the games symbolises how the aspirations of the northeast are getting new wings.

Conveying his best wishes to the athletes of the KIUG 2023, the Prime Minister complimented them for creating a grand image of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ in Assam’s Guwahati.

“Play wholeheartedly, play fearlessly, win for yourself and your team, and even if you lose, do not fret. Every setback is an opportunity to learn,” PM Modi said.

Reflecting on the nationwide sports initiatives, PM Modi while mentioning the ongoing KIUG 2023 in the northeast, Khelo India Winter Games in Ladakh, Khelo India Youth Games in Tamil Nadu, and Beach Games in Diu, said, “I am pleased to witness sports events being organised across every corner of India, from the North to the South and from the West to the East. The efforts of various state governments, including the Assam government, for their contribution in promoting sports and providing opportunities for youth to showcase their talents is commendable.”

Addressing the changing societal perceptions towards sports, PM Modi emphasised the shift in parental attitudes, noting that previously, the parents hesitated to involve their children in sports, fearing it would distract them from their academics. He highlighted the evolving mindset where parents now take pride in their children’s achievements in the field, be it at the state, national or international level. He also stressed the importance of celebrating and honouring the achievements of the athletes, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated in a press release.

“Just as academic achievements are celebrated, we must develop a tradition of honouring those who excel in sports,” PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister emphasised the need to learn from the northeastern region’s rich sports culture, where sports are celebrated fervently, inspiring athletes across disciplines, from football to athletics, badminton to boxing and weightlifting to chess. PM Modi expressed confidence that athletes participating in the Khelo India University Games would not only gain valuable experiences but also contribute to the advancement of sports culture throughout the nation, the PMO release added.

Highlighting the evolving ecosystem of opportunities for the youth, PM Modi said, “Whether it is Khelo India, TOPS or other initiatives, a new ecosystem of possibilities is being created for our young generation.”

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PM Modi Highlights India’s Success In Global Sporting Events

PM Modi proudly shared India’s success in global sporting events and celebrated the country’s ability to compete on the international stage, citing remarkable achievements in various tournaments, including the World University Games where Indian athletes secured unprecedented success, winning a total of 26 medals in 2023 from just four in 2019.

Mentioning the record medal haul in the Asian Games, PM Modi said that this is not just the number of medals but these are proofs of what Indian athletes can achieve if they are helped with a scientific approach.

Reflecting on the values instilled through sports, PM Modi said, “Success in sports requires more than just talent, it demands temperament, leadership, teamwork, and resilience.”

The Prime Minister encouraged the youth to embrace sports not only for physical fitness but also for developing essential life skills stating those who play, also flourish.

Prime Minister Modi urged the athletes to explore the beauty of the northeastern region beyond the sports arena. He encouraged them to embark on post-event adventures, capture memories and share their experiences on social media. Additionally, he suggested learning a few local phrases to engage with the communities they visit, enhancing their cultural experience, the release further stated.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur on Monday officially inaugurated the KIUG 2023 at the Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati. 

The writer is a senior independent journalist covering the Northeast.

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