Tuesday, 22 OCTOBER 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
The Sports minister Rekha Arya informed that to enhance performance, coaches from within the country or abroad will be made available to the athletes for the upcoming 38th National Games, which will be held in Uttarakhand on January 28, 2025. She said this during a meeting held here on Monday with officials of the Uttaranchal Olympic Association (UAO) regarding preparations for the National Games.
Arya said that, according to the association, the first training camp for selected players is set to begin on October 26, with plans for its expansion in the future. The meeting also resulted in a consensus on providing the best available coaching support, ensuring that players have access to qualified coaches, regardless of their origin. Further, Arya emphasised that the government is committed to providing comprehensive guidance to every player. She further highlighted ongoing efforts to maximise the number of medals the State can achieve. She added that a proposal to increase cash rewards for medal-winning athletes in next year’s National Games has also been prepared. Currently, gold medalists receive a prize of Rs six lakh, but if the Finance department approves the proposal, this amount will be raised to Rs 12 lakh. Additionally, Arya said that the 38th National Games will feature 38 events. Out Of these, 34 games have already been confirmed, while four State-specific games will be included. So far, Malkhamb and Yoga have been selected, and the decision regarding the remaining two games will be made in an upcoming meeting to be chaired by the chief minister, she said.
She further added it was also decided to organise a torch rally in all districts of the State before the National Games, aiming to engage as many players and community members as possible. To ensure the successful organisation of the National Games, the department is providing full support to the UOA at every level, she added.
