Inspiring Journey of Our Youth's Determination: PM Modi on Bastar Olympics

New Delhi, Dec 29 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday conveyed his pride in the advancements India has made in the health and fitness domains, underscoring a range of government initiatives that encourage wellness and sports.

In his 117th episode of the monthly radio program 'Mann Ki Baat,' PM Modi remarked, "During this winter season, numerous activities centered around sports and fitness are being conducted nationwide. I am delighted that individuals are integrating fitness into their daily lives."

He acknowledged the increasing enthusiasm for sports throughout India, referencing activities such as skiing in Kashmir and kite flying in Gujarat. He also commended initiatives like 'Sunday On Cycle' and 'Cycling Tuesday,' which are motivating more individuals to embrace cycling as a fitness routine.

Focusing on a remarkable initiative, PM Modi highlighted the inaugural Bastar Olympics, characterizing it as a transformation in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, an area historically affected by Maoist violence.

"A new revolution is unfolding in Bastar through the Bastar Olympics. It fills me with immense joy that this dream has been realized. The mascots of the Bastar Olympics, the 'Wild Water Buffalo' and 'Hill Myna,' symbolize the rich cultural heritage of Bastar. The defining mantra of this sports Mahakumbh is 'Karsay Ta Bastar Barsaye Ta Bastar,' translating to 'Bastar will play, Bastar will win," he stated.

The Prime Minister emphasized the participation of 1.65 lakh players from seven districts in the Bastar Olympics, labeling it "a proud tale of our youth's determination."

He mentioned the diverse array of sports included, such as athletics, archery, badminton, football, hockey, weightlifting, karate, kabaddi, kho-kho, and volleyball, where young athletes have demonstrated remarkable talent.

PM Modi also shared motivating stories from the Bastar Olympics about participants like -- Kari Kashyap, a silver medalist in archery; Payal Kawasi, who secured a gold medal in javelin throw; Punem Sanna, a wheelchair racer from Dornapal in Sukma who moved from Naxal influence to winning medals; and Ranju Sori, an archer from Kodagaon and the selected 'Bastar Youth Icon'.

"The Bastar Olympics transcends mere sports events. It serves as a platform where development and sports converge, enabling our youth to refine their talents and contribute to a new Bharat. I encourage everyone to promote similar sports events in your communities, share stories of local sports talent using 'Khelega Bharat, Jeetega Bharat,' and provide young athletes with opportunities for growth," he urged.

Shifting focus to the health sector, PM Modi highlighted two notable achievements that have garnered global recognition.

"Both these accomplishments pertain to health. The first is in the battle against malaria, a challenge humanity has faced for over 4,000 years. At the time of Independence, malaria was among our most pressing health issues. It ranks third among infectious diseases causing fatalities in children aged between one month and five years. Today, I can proudly assert that India has unitedly and resolutely confronted this challenge," he stated.

Citing a World Health Organization report, he noted, "India has witnessed an 80 percent reduction in malaria cases and deaths between 2015 and 2023. This achievement is significant and is a result of collective efforts. From every corner of the country, individuals contributed to this success."

He provided examples of community-driven initiatives, such as the tea garden workers in Jorhat, Assam, who effectively utilized technology and social media to combat malaria, and public campaigns in Kurukshetra, Haryana, where street performances and radio broadcasts educated people about preventing mosquito breeding.

The Prime Minister also pointed out advancements in the fight against cancer, referencing a study published in the medical journal The Lancet.

"The likelihood of initiating cancer treatment promptly in India has significantly increased. Timely treatment, defined as starting care within 30 days, has been greatly supported by the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. This program has enabled 90 percent of cancer patients to commence treatment on time," he explained.

He elaborated that financial constraints previously deterred low-income patients from pursuing timely cancer diagnoses and treatments.

"Now, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana has emerged as a vital support system, alleviating financial burdens in cancer care and motivating individuals to seek timely treatment," he added.

PM Modi stressed the significance of heightened awareness, prompt action, and assurance in the battle against cancer.

"This success is a collective endeavor of our healthcare system, including doctors, nurses, technical personnel, and citizens. With everyone's backing, our commitment to conquering cancer has become even stronger," he concluded.

"There is a singular mantra to combat cancer – Awareness, Action, and Assurance. Awareness entails understanding cancer and its symptoms, Action signifies timely diagnosis and treatment, and Assurance represents the confidence that every possible support is accessible for patients," he concluded.