PM Modi made sports a mass movement Sarbananda Sonowal

The Sansad Khel Mahotsav held in Dibrugarh, Assam, has emerged as a pivotal platform for nurturing young athletes and promoting a sports culture across the region. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted how Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision has transformed sports in India from a niche activity into a mass movement that engages millions of citizens. Speaking to a diverse audience of athletes, students, and local residents, Sonowal emphasized that sports now play a central role in youth empowerment, community building, and national development.

According to Sonowal, the initiative reflects a broader agenda of integrating fitness, discipline, and competitive spirit into the lives of young Indians. By giving sports a prominent place in India’s growth story, Prime Minister Modi has fostered an environment where athletic excellence is celebrated as a key component of nation-building. Sonowal urged the youth to embrace the spirit of "Khelo India – Khelo Desh," reinforcing that a healthy, sports-oriented population is vital for the country’s progress.

Sonowal further noted that the Sansad Khel Mahotsav has significantly strengthened grassroots sports by discovering and supporting young talent at an early stage. The event encourages community participation, instills discipline, and develops character among aspiring athletes. Through such initiatives, young individuals gain confidence and learn the value of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership, all of which contribute to a stronger societal fabric.

Supporting Young Athletes in Dibrugarh

The Union Minister announced constituency-level incentives and institutional support aimed at enhancing the training and performance of promising sportspersons from Dibrugarh. Talented athletes will receive targeted assistance to compete at higher levels, ensuring that local talent has the opportunity to shine nationally and internationally. Sonowal highlighted that such measures are critical for building a robust sports ecosystem in Assam and providing pathways for youth to pursue professional athletic careers.

Sonowal emphasized that the provision of resources and facilities is essential for nurturing young talent. By combining coaching expertise, financial backing, and access to modern infrastructure, athletes are better equipped to achieve excellence. The government's initiatives focus on creating sustainable development models for sports, ensuring that participants from diverse socio-economic backgrounds can thrive and contribute to India’s sporting success.

Expanding Sports Infrastructure and National Programs

During his address, Sonowal referred to Good Governance Day, observed on former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary, to highlight the substantial reforms in India’s sports sector since 2014. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, sports infrastructure has expanded significantly, participation rates have surged, and systematic talent identification programs have been implemented nationwide.

Flagship initiatives such as Khelo India, Fit India, and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) provide structured pathways for athletes, offering world-class training, professional coaching, and financial support. Assam has mirrored this national vision by implementing programs like Khel Mahotsav, focusing on talent identification from rural areas, tea gardens, and remote regions, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for aspiring athletes.

Local Impact and Community Engagement

The development of indoor and outdoor stadiums in Dibrugarh has strengthened parental confidence in sports as a viable career option. Sonowal underlined that improved infrastructure, along with structured training programs, encourages greater participation and nurtures a culture of sporting excellence. The Mahotsav also fosters community bonding, as local citizens, officials, and athletes come together to celebrate sports and recognize achievements.

Several dignitaries attended the event, including Assam Minister Prashanta Phukan, Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation Mayor and Deputy Mayor Ujjal Phukan, Assam Petrochemicals Limited Chairman Bikul Deka, BJP district president Dulal Bora, Dibrugarh Development Authority Chairman Asim Hazarika, BVFCL Managing Director Pranjal Barman, Sri Sri Aniruddhadeva University Vice Chancellor Prof. Narendra Nath Sarma, and officials from the Dibrugarh District Sports Association. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between government, educational institutions, and sports authorities in building a thriving athletic community.

Empowering Youth Through Sports

Sonowal concluded by reiterating the transformative role of sports in fostering holistic development among youth. By providing opportunities, resources, and recognition, programs like Sansad Khel Mahotsav empower young athletes to achieve personal excellence while contributing to national pride. The initiative serves as a model for other regions, demonstrating how structured sports programs can create a pipeline of talent, strengthen communities, and promote healthy lifestyles nationwide.

The event not only celebrated athletic achievements but also highlighted the government's commitment to creating an environment where sports, fitness, and youth development are intertwined with India’s broader developmental goals. With sustained support and active engagement from authorities, educators, and communities, initiatives like the Dibrugarh Khel Mahotsav pave the way for a new era of sports-driven empowerment across the nation.

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