New Delhi, November 22, 2024: Even before the celebrations surrounding India’s Women’s Asian Champions Trophy title defence could come to an end, there’s more good news for the state and its people.
After the hosting rights of next year’s Men’s Hockey Asia Cup went to Rajgir on Wednesday, the state is now also slated to host the Khelo India Youth Games next year and the announcement was made by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in a social media post earlier on Thursday.
Meanwhile, according to a press release issued by PIB, it will be the first time that the tournament will be followed by the Khelo India Para Games after a 10–15-day break, along the lines of the Summer Olympics according to the reports published in timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
The last edition of the Khelo India Youth Games was held in Tamil Nadu in 2023 while the maiden Para Games took place in New Delhi with Haryana winning the title by securing 105 medals — 40 gold, 39 silver, and 26 bronze.
Dr. Mandaviya, who was present during the final of the Asian Champions Trophy between India and China and later gave away the winners’ trophy along with FIH president Tayyab Ikram, further said in the release, “We encourage athletes to make the most of the facilities available across the country. Bihar’s rich cultural diversity is also a significant attraction for everyone. Embracing and celebrating a state’s heritage is essential for building a stronger nation.”
Currently, there are 38 Khelo India Centres in Bihar and one Khelo India State Centre of Excellence that caters to athletes at all levels. In addition, there are three SAI Training Centres.
While the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy held at the newly-built Rajgir Sports was a huge success, the Khelo India Youth Games will indeed be a good test of the state’s preparedness ahead of the big-ticket Men’s Hockey Asia Cup which will be held from August 27-September 7.
