Guwahati: Union Minister and President of the Assam Olympic Association (AOA), Sarbananda Sonowal, extended his heartfelt best wishes to the Assam contingent set to participate in the upcoming 38th National Games in Uttarakhand.
The send-off event, held at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati on January 19, was attended by key figures, including Assam Ministers Nandita Garlosa, Pijush Hazarika, and Jayanta Malla Baruah, alongside AOA General Secretary Lakhya Konwar.
In his address to the athletes, Sonowal expressed his confidence in Assam’s rising sports prowess, stating, “Assam is an emerging powerhouse of sports talent. I am confident that our athletes will showcase indomitable spirit and stellar performances to bring glory to the state in the upcoming National Games. I urge every athlete to give their best, with discipline, dedication, and focus as their guiding principles.”
Drawing inspiration from Assam’s cultural icon, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Sonowal reminded the athletes of the powerful role sports play in promoting peace and harmony. “This world is a sports arena, and sports are the playground of peace. Sports have long been a harbinger of peace, harmony, and physical and mental excellence,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of competitions like the National Games, which offer athletes a platform to nurture their talents and shine.
Reflecting on the state’s growth in sports over the past decade, Sonowal credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fostering an environment conducive to sporting excellence. He pointed to Assam’s successful hosting of several prestigious events, such as the South Asian Games, the third Khelo India Youth Games, FIFA U-17 World Cup matches, and the AIBA Youth Women’s World Boxing Championship, which have solidified Assam’s position as a key player in India’s sports landscape.
The Union Minister also praised the Assam Olympic Association for its initiatives, such as the first-ever Assam Youth Olympics in 2022, which helped identify and nurture emerging talent from across the state. “We remain committed to taking steps that ensure comprehensive training and support for our athletes,” Sonowal added, expressing optimism that the Assam contingent would exceed its previous medal tally at the National Games.
In closing, Sonowal emphasized the broader significance of sports in modern society, saying, “Nations that excel in sports also achieve remarkable success in other fields. Sports instil discipline, resilience, and positivity, contributing to the overall development of individuals and societies.” He called on Assam to emerge as a leader in sports and continue its journey of excellence on the national stage.
The Assam contingent has undergone rigorous preparation for the upcoming National Games, with the collective efforts of the state government and the Assam Olympic Association ensuring that athletes are well-equipped to meet the physical and mental demands of national-level competition. With high hopes for success, Assam aims to achieve new milestones in sports and bring pride to the state.
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