Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, while inaugurating Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 in Rajkot, earlier this week stated that the state government aims to provide world-class infrastructure to athletes.
The CM said that the government has progressively increased the sports budget to ensure easy access to equipment, training, and sports complexes.
The budget, which was INR 2.5 crore in 2002, has grown to INR 352 crore today. Furthermore, in 2002, there were only three sports complexes in the state.
Now, 24 sports complexes have been established across 22 districts, with 13 more under construction.
The Chief Minister also shared that a multi-utility sports centre is being built in Naranpura on 22 acres, while a Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave will be developed on 233 acres near the world’s largest cricket stadium, Narendra Modi Stadium.
Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 is organized by the state’s Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department and the Sports Authority of Gujarat.
The Chief Minister described Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 as a sports Maha Kumbh, ahead of the Maha Kumbh to be held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, next week.
The Chief Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, an atmosphere of trust and enthusiasm has emerged in the country, making 2024 a year of significant achievements in sports for India.
He highlighted the record-breaking performances of Indian players in the Paris Paralympics, the historic victory in the World Chess Championship, and the increasing participation of women in sports, all of which have set new milestones.
The Chief Minister further mentioned that the Prime Minister has taken on the mission of preparing India to host the 2036 Olympics.
Gujarat, under his guidance, is working towards organizing five world-class sporting events in 2025, 2026, and 2029, as part of the run-up to these Olympics.
The first edition in 2010 saw 16 lakh players; this year, a record-breaking 71 lakh registrations have been recorded. Overall, the state government will award winners from various sports with prizes totaling INR 45 crore.