National Games concludes, SSCB tops with 121 medals
Haldwani: The 38th National Games concluded with a vibrant yet simple closing ceremony in Haldwani on Friday, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah as the chief guest. The event was marked by inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and recognition of top-performing states and athletes.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed Amit Shah with a commemorative memento, a shawl, and a bouquet of flowers. He expressed pride in the state's successful hosting of the Games and the achievements of Uttarakhand’s athletes.
Shah praised Uttarakhand’s sporting progress, stating, "'Dev Bhoomi' has now also become a 'Khel Bhoomi' not just because of the National Games but also because of its athletes' performance in the Games and Dhami ji's relentless efforts towards hosting a successful Games."
He acknowledged the state's leap in the rankings: "Thanks to their efforts, Uttarakhand has jumped from 21st position (in the last Games) to seventh position (in the overall standings). I congratulate all the athletes who helped pave the way for 'Dev Bhoomi' to also become a 'Khel Bhoomi'. My best wishes are with them."
During his address, Amit Shah emphasised India's preparedness to host the 2036 Olympics, highlighting the nation's growing sporting capabilities.
"I can say it today that India has a very bright future in sports. We have staked a claim to host the Olympics in 2036, and we are ready for it. When the Olympics are held here, our athletes will win medals and make the country's flag fly high," Shah said.
India's Olympic aspirations
India's bid to host the Olympics in 2036 is in its early stages, with the International Olympic Committee expected to decide on the matter next year. Shah expressed confidence in India's potential, citing the nation's increasing investments in sports infrastructure and athlete development.
"When Modi ji became PM in 2014, our sports budget was Rs 800 crore, but now, it will rise to Rs 3,800 crore. This reflects the commitment of the Modi government towards sports," he added.
Shah further noted that India's medal count in major international sporting events has improved significantly.
"In 2014, Indian players won only 15 medals in the Commonwealth Games, while now the number has reached 26. The Asian Games tally has increased from 57 medals in 2014 to 107 in 2023."
IOA hands over hosting duties to Meghalaya
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha officially declared the Games closed, handing over the flag to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. Meghalaya will host the next edition of the National Games in 2027.
Dignitaries in attendance
Several eminent personalities attended the event, including Uttarakhand's Sports Minister Rekha Arya, boxing legend MC Mary Kom, and Olympic medallist shooter Gagan Narang.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also praised the athletes' performances, stating that the Games would be instrumental in India's journey to becoming a sports hub.
"Uttarakhand has conveyed to the country that it is not just Dev Bhoomi but also a Khel Bhoomi. The state ensured that no athlete faced any difficulty during the Games. It is the beginning of India becoming a sports hub," he said.
He further added, "It is the beginning of India coming inside the top 10 of Olympic performers by 2036. The country now has a sports ecosystem. It is moving forward in every aspect, including sports."
Recognising the champions
Amit Shah and Pushkar Singh Dhami presented awards to the top three performing teams. The Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) clinched the overall championship with an impressive 121 medals, including 68 gold, 26 silver, and 27 bronze. Maharashtra, which won the Raja Bhalindra Singh Trophy in the previous edition, finished second with 201 medals (54 gold, 71 silver, and 76 bronze). Haryana secured third place with 153 medals, including 48 gold, 47 silver, and 58 bronze.
Madhya Pradesh ranked fourth with 82 medals (34 gold, 26 silver, and 22 bronze), while Karnataka rounded out the top five with 80 medals (34 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze).
Closing ceremony highlights
Following Shah's address, the event featured a brief yet captivating cultural show, including a dance performance dedicated to Lord Shiva. A special video segment titled 'Games Recap' showcased the most thrilling and triumphant moments from the Games, which were held across seven venues, with Dehradun serving as the primary host city.
(Agency inputs)