Did HM Amit Shah Just Open the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad?

Ahmedabad, Sep 14 (NationPress) On Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah officially opened the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex located in Naranpura, Ahmedabad. This state-of-the-art facility, constructed at an investment of Rs 825 crore, is poised to become a significant venue for national and international sporting events.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable figures such as Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, both of whom expressed their support for this pivotal development in India's sporting infrastructure. Union Minister Shah described the complex as a revolutionary addition that will enhance India's stature in athletics and sports.

"Sports embodies the spirit of Bharat. With such facilities, India aspires to take the lead on a global stage in sports and athletics. The Veer Savarkar Sports Complex is expansive, modern, and all-encompassing, designed to motivate athletes to excel not just for personal achievements but for our nation," he remarked.

He further emphasized that with landmarks like the Narendra Modi Stadium, Sardar Patel Sports Enclave, and now the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, Ahmedabad is on the path to becoming the “Sports Capital of India”.

Union Minister Shah also paid tribute to the complex's namesake, stating, "Veer Savarkar was not merely a revolutionary but also a skilled swimmer who famously escaped British custody by diving into the ocean while shackled. Dedicating this modern facility to him honors both his bravery and his vision for India."

Chief Minister Patel highlighted crucial legislative measures like the Sports Governance Bill 2025 and the National Anti-Doping Amendment Bill 2025, which aim to safeguard the interests of athletes.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are fulfilling the vision of 'Virasat bhi, Vikas bhi', enhancing India's ancient sporting traditions with a contemporary touch,” he stated, noting that Gujarat is well-equipped to host major global events such as the Commonwealth Games 2030 and the Olympics 2036.

He remarked on the state’s burgeoning sports culture: "In the past two decades, Gujarat's sports budget has exponentially increased to Rs 486 crore. We now boast 23 sports complexes across 21 districts, including a Para-athlete High Performance Centre and the upcoming Sardar Patel Sports Enclave."

Union Minister Mandaviya characterized the inauguration as a significant milestone for India's sporting landscape.

“With Prime Minister Modi's guidance, we are fostering a developed and prosperous Bharat. Facilities like this will help transform athletes' dreams into medals,” he said.

He also mentioned that the new National Sports Policy is enhancing the sporting ecosystem by integrating infrastructure, nutrition, injury management, and transparent selection processes while providing Indian athletes with global exposure.

Spanning 21 acres, the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex includes an aquatics stadium, a multi-sport indoor arena, a Sports Centre of Excellence, outdoor courts, a Fit India zone, and a community sports center. It also facilitates coaching, training, and yoga and fitness activities for the community.

Even prior to its official launch, the complex has successfully hosted significant tournaments, including the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship, and is slated to host the Asian Aquatics Competition featuring over 1,200 athletes.

Union Home Minister Shah underscored India's progress in global sports.

“From 1947 to 2012, India secured only 20 Olympic medals. In the past eight years alone, we have achieved 15 Olympic medals, 52 in the Paralympics, and 22 in the Deaflympics. This showcases the Modi government's dedication to sports,” he stated.

He also announced that Ahmedabad is set to host the World Police and Fire Games in 2029, with strong prospects for being the venue for the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and the Olympics in 2036.

The ceremony was graced by Union Ministers, state leaders, MPs, MLAs, senior officials, as well as international and national athletes, coaches, and sports associations.

Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi recalled that Union Minister Amit Shah had committed to completing the project within 30 months and closely monitored its development.