Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a virtual address from New Delhi, articulated a transformative vision for Indian sports, emphasizing a systemic shift towards pure meritocracy. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the two-day Sansad Khel Mahotsav – 2025 held at Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna on Thursday, the PM declared that the nation has built an ecosystem where pathways to the top are open to talent alone.
A New Era of Merit in Sports
Modi asserted that the Union government has successfully fostered an environment that dismantles traditional barriers. "Today, opportunities in sports are not limited; they are unlimited," he stated. The Prime Minister explained that the current framework ensures selections are made on the basis of an athlete's skill and talent, rather than external influence or authority. This foundational change, he highlighted, empowers even children from the most economically disadvantaged backgrounds to ascend to national and international prominence at a young age.
Eyeing Global Sporting Glory: 2030 & 2036
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined India's ambitious calendar to host the world's premier sporting events. He confirmed plans for the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030 and revealed India's serious bid to host the Olympic Games in 2036. Linking this long-term goal directly to the youth, Modi issued a powerful call to action. "The young people who are 10 or 12 years old today will represent India in the 2036 Olympics," he said, urging them to train with this global platform in mind.
Grassroots Mobilization Through MPs
The Sansad Khel Mahotsav, organized on the occasion of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary and Good Governance Day, was positioned as a cornerstone of this talent-spotting mission. Modi directed Members of Parliament to play a proactive role in scouting and nurturing potential from their constituencies. "Identify talents within your constituencies who can shine India’s name at the national and international levels, including at the Olympics. Provide them with all possible help. Guide them," he advised, stressing the importance of local initiatives.
Echoing the Prime Minister's sentiment, the event's organizer and Patna Sahib MP, Ravi Shankar Prasad, credited Modi's foresight for the nationwide rollout of the Sansad Khel Mahotsav. He stated its primary objective is to unlock new opportunities for local athletes and boost sports participation at the grassroots level.
BJP state president Sanjay Saraogi also addressed the athletes, framing competition as a motivator. He noted that while winners are celebrated, the outcome should inspire those who did not win to redouble their efforts. Saraogi praised the Mahotsav as a "powerful platform" for discovering hidden talent in both rural and urban India, instilling confidence and providing direction to the younger generation. The ceremony concluded with Saraogi honoring the outstanding performers of the event.
