To mark the silver jubilee of the state’s founding, the state-level Under-17 boys’ football competition began at the Pavilion Ground in Dehradun on Wednesday, November 05. Teams from 12 districts, two sports colleges, and two hostels are participating in the competition. Sports Minister Rekha Arya was present as the chief guest at the inauguration.
Inaugurating the event, Sports Minister Rekha Arya stated that Uttarakhand has been known as the Land of Gods, but the state’s athletes should perform so well that in the future, Uttarakhand will also be known as the “Land of Sports.” She added that the state government is working on several schemes to encourage athletes. Medal-winning athletes are being offered out-of-turn government jobs, four percent reservation in government jobs, and maximum cash prizes, to boost the morale of young people and encourage them to pursue a career in sports.
Rekha Arya stated that the government now has the responsibility for the talent, career, and future of young people pursuing sports. She told the players that sports are not just a means to win, but also an opportunity to learn discipline, unity, and team spirit. Sports develop self-confidence and leadership skills in youth, which contribute to nation-building.
This competition, held at the Pavilion Ground, is not only providing the state’s young players with an opportunity to showcase their talent at the state level, but also instilling confidence in them to compete in national-level competitions in the future.