Dehradun – Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the International Olympic Day celebrations held at the Parade Ground in Dehradun on Monday. On the occasion, he administered the oath of sportsmanship to athletes and honoured those who have brought laurels to the country by winning medals at national and international levels.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that the Olympic Games are more than a competition — they embody dedication, discipline, and national pride. “Olympic Day is a tribute to the values of sportsmanship, unity, and peace,” he said.
Highlighting India’s growing stature in the world of sports, the Chief Minister noted the nation’s recent achievements. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is transitioning from being merely a participant to becoming a sporting powerhouse. India’s 107 medals in the 2023 Asian Games and the qualification of 126 athletes for the Tokyo Olympics are testament to our strengthening sports ecosystem,” he added.
CM Dhami also reiterated his government’s commitment to making Uttarakhand a sports-centric state or ‘Khelbhoomi’. He informed that significant initiatives are underway, including the establishment of 23 sports academies, a Sports University in Haldwani, and a Women’s Sports College in Lohaghat.
He proudly shared that Uttarakhand athletes showcased stellar performances in the 38th National Games, securing 103 medals and bringing glory to the state.
To support sportspersons, the state government has introduced various schemes under its sports policy. These include out-of-turn government jobs, sports allowances, and awards such as the Uttarakhand Khel Ratna and Himalaya Khel Ratna. A 4% sports quota has also been implemented in government services. Financial incentives are being directly transferred through DBT to 3,900 athletes under the Mukhyamantri Udyaman Khiladi Unnayan Yojana and to 2,155 athletes under the Mukhyamantri Protsahan Yojana.
Speaking at the event, Sports Minister Rekha Arya highlighted that the newly framed sports policy, under the leadership of CM Dhami, focuses on ensuring the welfare and future growth of athletes. “Rapid strides have been made in developing sports infrastructure, and the successful hosting of the 38th National Games stands as a major milestone,” she said.
Special Principal Secretary (Sports) Amit Sinha, Additional Director Ajay Aggarwal, and several other officials from the Sports Department were also present at the event.
