Excelsior Correspondent
DEHRADUN, Dec 16: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami today launched the logo, theme song and grand mascot at unveiling ceremony of 38th National Games at Maharana Pratap Sports College in Raipur, Dehradun.
Amid the ceremony, traditional sports like yoga and mallakhamb were also included in the National Games. This decision was approved by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) following the request of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and the announcement in this regard was made by IOA president Dr. PT Usha.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister expressed that the day marks a historic moment in Uttarakhand’s sports history.
He extended heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of all Uttarakhand residents for granting the state the opportunity to host the National Games.
Dhami stated that the Games’ logo beautifully showcases Uttarakhand’s diverse cultural hues. The anthem not only symbolizes unity but also inspires athletes to strive harder. The mascot, inspired by the state bird Monal, reflects the uniqueness of Uttarakhand and motivates young athletes to set ambitious goals.
“The logo, also inspired by the Monal, will represent the natural beauty and diversity of Uttarakhand across the country. The National Games’ torch, which was ceremoniously lit, symbolizes unity and collective effort. It will travel across the state, fostering a sports culture and spirit of sportsmanship,” he said.
“The State Government has allocated approximately Rs 500 crore for infrastructural development, which includes constructing new sports grounds, renovating stadiums and swimming pools and developing infrastructure for water sports, cycling tracks and shooting ranges,” he added.
Union Minister of State for Sports, Raksha Khadse, lauded the country’s athletes for their stellar performances in international competitions and commended Uttarakhand’s athletes for bringing pride to the State and the Nation.
She assured the Central Government’s full support in Uttarakhand’s sports development efforts and shared aspirations for hosting the Olympics in India.
IOA president Dr. PT Usha extended her best wishes to Uttarakhand for hosting the National Games and praised Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s leadership, expressing confidence that Uttarakhand would achieve remarkable progress in sports development.
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