Can India Become a Sporting Superpower?, Asserts PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi envisions India as a sporting superpower.
- Nearly 600 medals were won at the World Police and Fire Games.
- Focus on grassroots sports and support for athletes.
- 2029 World Police and Fire Games will be held in India.
- Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 aims to integrate sports into daily life.
New Delhi, July 27 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated his ambition for transforming India into a sporting superpower and commended the Indian team for securing nearly 600 medals at the recently held ‘World Police and Fire Games’.
In the 124th edition of his monthly radio show 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi highlighted the commendation received by the government's 'Khelo Bharat Niti 2025'.
“The objective of this initiative is straightforward - to elevate India to a sporting superpower,” he stated, emphasizing support for sports-related startups, including those in sports management and manufacturing.
He pointed out that the policy focuses particularly on empowering villages, economically disadvantaged communities, and women. “Educational institutions will now integrate sports into daily routines,” he remarked.
“Visualize the strength that our mission for self-reliance would acquire if the youth engage with locally made rackets, bats, and balls. Friends, sports instills team spirit. This is the pathway to fitness, self-assurance, and nurturing a robust India. So, engage extensively in sports and flourish,” he encouraged.
Reflecting on the biennial World Police and Fire Games, which concluded on July 6 in Birmingham, Alabama, PM Modi noted that India's uniformed personnel are gaining recognition not only in service but also in athletics.
“This time, the event took place in America, and India made history. We amassed nearly 600 medals and ranked among the top three out of 71 nations. The dedication of our uniformed personnel, who stand guard for the nation round the clock, has borne fruit. These brave individuals are now also excelling in sports. I extend my congratulations to all athletes and their coaching staff,” he declared.
The PM further engaged the audience by asking, “Are you aware of the largest sporting event aside from the Olympics? The answer is the World Police and Fire Games... a global tournament featuring police officers, firefighters, and security personnel.”
Interestingly, he mentioned that the 2029 edition of these games will be hosted in India. Athletes from around the globe will visit our nation, allowing us to showcase our hospitality and introduce them to our rich sports culture, he added.
The government intends to conduct the event in Gujarat, specifically in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Ekta Nagar.