Mandya (Karnataka), March 14 (NationPress) - On Saturday, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy formally initiated the construction of a state-of-the-art multi-purpose indoor stadium in Mandya, with an investment of Rs 14 crore, as part of the Central government's Khelo India initiative.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place on the grounds of the University of Agricultural Sciences at VC Farm in Mandya. During the event, the ministers emphasized the motto “Khelo India, Vibrant Mandya” to foster sports development in the region and promote the rise of new sporting champions.

Both Mandaviya and Kumaraswamy engaged in traditional rituals during the ceremony, which was attended by several dignitaries, including former Minister C.S. Puttaraju, Melukote MLA Darshan Puttannaiah, K.R. Pete MLA Manjunath, and various other public officials.

In his address, Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted that the Khelo India program aims to rejuvenate the sports culture from the grassroots level, propelling India towards becoming a prominent sporting nation.

He acknowledged that the modern indoor stadium's establishment is a result of the collaborative efforts with his Cabinet colleague and NDA leader H.D. Kumaraswamy. Mandaviya commended Kumaraswamy for the affection he has earned from the people, reflecting his dedication to their welfare.

Mandaviya also lauded Kumaraswamy for his commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities, noting that the provision of electric vehicles not only assists beneficiaries but also serves to protect the environment.

He remarked on Mandya's legacy of producing athletes who have garnered acclaim at state, national, and international levels.

Mandaviya reminisced about notable athletes like discus thrower Vikas Gowda and wheelchair tennis player K.P. Shilpa, who is recognized as India’s premier wheelchair tennis player, having represented the nation globally. He expressed optimism that many more gifted athletes will emerge from the district.

The Union Minister noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, significant strides have been made over the past 11 years to enhance sports infrastructure nationwide, with Rs 4,000 crore earmarked in the latest budget to enrich sports facilities.

“Ten years ago, allocations stood at only Rs 1,200 crore. This figure has now increased over threefold,” he stated.

The event was also blessed by Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji, the pontiff of the Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana. Other attendees included former Ministers C.S. Puttaraju and D.C. Thammanna, MLA Manjunath, former MLA Dr. K. Annadani, MLC Vivekananda, JD(S) district president Ramesh, and numerous other dignitaries.

Following the public meeting, electric vehicles were distributed to 388 individuals with disabilities. H.D. Kumaraswamy became visibly emotional during the distribution, as the recipients expressed their gratitude, and he appreciated their effort in attending the event from distant locations.

The moment was witnessed by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, the seer, and other dignitaries, emphasizing the occasion's emotional significance.

After the foundation ceremony, both Union Ministers were escorted in an open vehicle procession to the public gathering site, where they were greeted with a grand garland made of jaggery.

Mandaviya was visibly astonished by the grand reception, while Kumaraswamy elaborated on the renowned quality and reputation of Mandya’s famous jaggery.