Shri V. Somanna, Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, today inaugurated an event organized at Ramaiah Law College in Bengaluru as part of the "Khelo India Dialogue - Khel Ki Baat PM Modi Ke Saath" program. Renowned sportspersons Ms. Trupti Murgunde and Ms. Rakshitha Raju, Director of My Bharat Shri Ashok Kumar Das, and others were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, Shri V. Somanna, said that the sports is not just about winning medals; it is a resolve to represent the nation and to make the mind and body strong. By July 2026, 1,000 Khelo India Centers have been established across India. Under the Make in India initiative, ₹500 crore has been allocated for the manufacturing of sports equipment. The Minister noted that previously, India faced difficulties, while participating in global sports events. However, today, India is not only participating in international sports events, but also bringing numerous medals in the Olympics and Paralympics.

The MoS said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, sports has emerged not merely as a competition, but as a key tool for nation building. Stating that revolutionary changes are taking place in India’s sports sector, the Minister recalled Indian athletes creating history by winning medals at the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. He commended the Indian hockey team for restoring its past glory by winning consecutive Olympic medals, as well as creating an all-time new record by winning 107 medals at the 2023 Asian Games.

Elaborating on the priority given to the sports sector by the Central Government, the Minister stated that the 'Khelo India Mission' was announced in the Union Budget with the goal of building a long-term and outcome-based sports ecosystem. Karnataka’s achievements in various sports, including cricket, badminton, athletics, and billiards, have been remarkable. Currently, the main objective is to provide clear guidance to talented young men and women at every district and university level in the state to excel in sports. He called upon universities to become key centers for building a 'Viksit Bharat' through sports alongside education. Emphasizing that youth are not just beneficiaries of development but also active partners, the Minister remarked that the 'Mera Yuva Bharat' initiative serves as a crucial platform for volunteering, leadership, and nation building.

For decades, Indian Railways has stood as a strong backbone for the country’s sports sector. Continuous encouragement is being provided through the 'Railway Sports Promotion Board', established in 1928. Currently, over 9,000 sportspersons are serving under 29 sports disciplines in Indian Railways. The Minister expressed pride that the Railways provides world-class training, suitable opportunities, and career security to young athletes.

With the ambitious goal of hosting the 2036 Olympics, the Minister said it is essential to identify the talent in children aged 5 to 8 years and provide them with modern training and guidance at an early stage. Significant steps are being taken in this direction under the guidance of Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.

Major Dhyan Chand Award recipient and Badminton player Ms. Trupti Murgunde spoke, stating that an athlete must dedicate their life to sports, which will help to shape future athletes. "I initially chose hockey as my sport. However, after a few days, I dedicated my life to badminton. Involved in badminton since the age of nine, I was able to achieve many accomplishments due to my mother's firm determination. Initially, there was no support from family members because I was a girl. After a few days, recognizing my achievements, my family and society began supporting me," she reminisced, recounting her experiences in sports.

Another athlete, Ms. Rakshitha Raju, stated that through firm determination and mind power, the best outcome can be achieved. "Even though I have a visual impairment, it has never been a hindrance. Sports has been the guiding light of my life." Recalling the moments she met Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi thrice, she stated that an focused mind is more essential for sports than physical fitness. On this occasion, she expressed her hope to win a gold medal in the upcoming Paralympics.

Members of the college management, professors, and law students were present in the program.

 

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