Golfer Arjun Bhati to be Honored with National Youth Award for Fundraising Efforts During Pandemic
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Synopsis
Arjun Bhati, a notable three-time Golf Junior World Champion, will receive the National Youth Award on April 3, recognizing his fundraising efforts during the pandemic. His donation of Rs 4,30,000 to the PM CARES Fund exemplifies his commitment to service. Bhati also highlights the rising popularity of golf in India and the government's support for athletes.
Key Takeaways
- Arjun Bhati to receive National Youth Award on April 3.
- Raised Rs 4,30,000 by selling trophies for COVID-19 relief.
- Golf's popularity is increasing in India.
- Government support for athletes has strengthened.
- Fit India Movement promotes fitness among the youth.
New Delhi, April 1 (NationPress) Arjun Bhati, the renowned three-time Golf Junior World Champion, is poised to receive the esteemed National Youth Award (NYA) on April 3 during an official ceremony organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports at Parliament.
In an interview with IANS, Bhati expressed his appreciation, stating, “I am feeling very good. My family and I are very grateful. I am extremely happy and excited about this award. I would like to thank the Government of India for selecting me and considering me worthy of this honour.”
Reflecting on his journey, Bhati remembered a poignant moment during the COVID-19 pandemic when he sold 102 of his trophies to aid the nation.
“I sold my 102 trophies during COVID-19 and raised Rs 4,30,000 which I donated to the PM CARES Fund. My goal was to serve the country. My grandmother even contributed her one-year pension to donate. That motivated me to help in any way I could, beyond just playing golf,” he shared.
Bhati also noted the increasing popularity of golf in India.
“Golf is gradually gaining traction in our country. More individuals are taking up the sport. With Kapil Dev becoming the president of our tour and various initiatives by the Golf Federation of India, golf is on the rise. The world should recognize the talent India has to offer. Young people are getting inspired, and if Indian players excel internationally, it will showcase our potential globally,” the young golfer stated.
Sharing insights into his journey, Bhati said, “I first played golf when I was 9 years old in school. Initially, my parents were not very supportive because golf wasn’t as popular then. But when they recognized my passion and dedication, they became my biggest supporters. I’ve been playing for the past 10 years and turned professional three years ago. In 2023, I received an award from the Virat Kohli Foundation, which has been incredibly motivating. Meeting Virat Kohli at the Indian Sports Honour event in Mumbai in 2019 was inspiring. His dedication and fitness regimen encouraged me to push myself further.”
Bhati praised the Indian government’s role in promoting sports, citing Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold medal as evidence of the growing support for athletes.
“Neeraj Chopra’s success is a testament to the government’s backing. Over the past 7-8 years, the government has been pivotal in supporting athletes. Various organizations and schemes are now in place to nurture young talent,” he remarked.
He also expressed admiration for the Prime Minister’s engagement with the youth.
“Meeting the Prime Minister is a significant honor for any athlete. It inspires us. I felt incredibly encouraged when PM Modi tweeted about my donation during COVID-19. The Prime Minister’s continuous support for athletes is genuinely motivating.”
Bhati commended the Fit India Movement for advocating fitness among the youth.
“The Fit India Movement has sparked a wave of health awareness, with more youngsters joining gyms and focusing on their fitness. The government’s initiatives like the India Youth Mission are helping raise awareness and promote a healthier lifestyle,” he added.
Reflecting on the impact of government support, Bhati concluded, “The government’s contribution in recent years has generated interest in sports beyond cricket. Neeraj Chopra’s victory has inspired many to explore other sports like golf. Parents now feel more confident supporting their children’s sporting aspirations, knowing that there is government backing. This support is crucial for the growth of sports in India.”
The NYA, awarded by the Department of Youth Affairs under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, recognizes individuals aged 15-29 and organizations for remarkable contributions in areas such as health, human rights, active citizenship, and community service. The awards aim to motivate young people to excel in national development and social service while fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement.
