Assam contingent is all set to compete in upcoming 38th National Games, which are scheduled to take place in Uttarakhand. A grand send-off and kit unveiling ceremony was organized at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday. Union Minister and President of Assam Olympic Association (AOA), Sarbananda Sonowal, extended his heartfelt wishes to athletes, urging them to bring pride and glory to state.
event was graced by presence of several prominent dignitaries, including Assam Ministers Nandita Garlosa, Pijush Hazarika, and Jayanta Malla Baruah, along with AOA General Secretary Lakhya Konwar. occasion reflected government’s commitment to fostering a culture of sports in state.
Key Event Highlights
Key Details | Information |
Event | Send-off ceremony for Assam’s National Games contingent |
Location | Sarusajai Stadium, Guwahati |
Chief Guest | Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister, and AOA President |
Dignitaries Present | Nandita Garlosa, Pijush Hazarika, Jayanta Malla Baruah, Lakhya Konwar |
Occasion | Kit unveiling and best wishes to athletes |
Host State of National Games | Uttarakhand |
Sonowal’s Address: Assam’s Rising Sporting Identity
Speaking at event, Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted Assam’s increasing prominence in Indian sports arena. “Assam is an emerging powerhouse of sports talent. I am confident that our athletes will display their indomitable spirit and deliver stellar performances at National Games. Discipline, dedication, and focus should be their guiding principles,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from words of cultural icon Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Sonowal quoted, “This world is a sports arena, and sports are playground of peace.” He elaborated on how sports contribute to fostering peace, harmony, and excellence in physical and mental domains. Competitions like National Games, he noted, serve as significant platforms for athletes to showcase their skills and achieve new heights in their respective disciplines.
Assam as a Hub for Sports Excellence
Reflecting on state’s journey in sports, Sonowal credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for India’s remarkable progress in sector. He mentioned Assam’s successful hosting of key national and international events, such as:
- South Asian Games
- third Khelo India Youth Games
- FIFA U-17 World Cup matches
- AIBA Youth Women’s World Boxing Championship
These events, he noted, have cemented Assam’s reputation as a hub for sports talent in India. Sonowal also emphasized transformative role of initiatives like 2022 Assam Youth Olympics, which provided a platform for young athletes to nurture their potential and compete at higher levels.
Commitment to Athlete Development
President of AOA reiterated government’s commitment to supporting athletes through comprehensive training, advanced facilities, and adequate resources. Sonowal expressed optimism about contingent’s performance, stating, “We firmly believe in potential of our athletes and are committed to ensuring they receive best preparation. I am confident they will bring laurels to state.”
Assam contingent has undergone rigorous preparations, with support from both government and AOA. This preparation reflects state’s ambition to surpass its previous medal tally and achieve new milestones in national-level competition.
Sports as a Catalyst for Nation-Building
Sonowal underscored broader significance of sports in nation-building, pointing out that countries excelling in sports often lead in other fields as well. He stressed importance of Assam emerging as a leader in sports, aligning with vision of making it one of India’s top five states in various domains.
Inspiring Next Generation
ceremony served as a moment of inspiration for young athletes across state. By acknowledging efforts of players and providing them with a ceremonial send-off, event highlighted government’s encouragement towards sports as a career path.
Sonowal’s address also touched upon larger goals of nurturing a generation of disciplined, focused, and physically fit individuals through sports. He pointed out that events like National Games not only test athletes’ mettle but also foster a spirit of camaraderie and unity among states.
Preparation and Future Prospects
With support of cutting-edge training facilities and expert coaching, Assam contingent is poised to perform exceptionally well in 38th National Games. athletes have displayed remarkable dedication during their training sessions and are eager to showcase their talents on national stage.
Assam’s emphasis on promoting grassroots sports development has also begun to yield significant results. Initiatives to identify and nurture talent from rural areas have expanded state’s talent pool, ensuring a continuous supply of skilled athletes ready to compete at national and international levels.
Sonowal’s Vision for Assam
Sarbananda Sonowal’s vision for Assam’s sporting future is ambitious yet achievable. By fostering a culture of discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship, state aims to become a dominant force in India’s sports landscape. support extended to athletes, coupled with government-backed initiatives, underscores commitment to turning this vision into reality.
Sonowal’s message to athletes was clear: “Your success is not just personal; it’s a reflection of collective aspirations of Assam. Go forward with determination, and make your state proud.”
Table: Assam’s Major Sports Achievements
Event | Year | Achievement |
South Asian Games | 2016 | Successfully hosted |
Khelo India Youth Games | 2020 | Ranked among top-performing states |
FIFA U-17 World Cup Matches | 2017 | Hosted major matches |
AIBA Youth Women’s World Boxing Championship | 2017 | Enhanced Assam’s reputation as a boxing hub |
Assam Youth Olympics | 2022 | Provided platform for young athletes |
Conclusion
send-off ceremony for Assam’s National Games contingent marked a significant moment in state’s journey as a sports powerhouse. With robust preparations, unwavering support, and a strong vision, Assam is poised to achieve remarkable success in 38th National Games. efforts of athletes, coupled with state’s commitment to sports development, promise a bright future for Assam in national and international sporting arena.
Disclaimer: This article is based on event and information as presented on January 20, 2025. views and statements expressed are attributed to individuals and entities mentioned. For further updates, readers are encouraged to follow official channels and announcements.