Ahmedabad: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated Khel Mahakumbh 2.0 on Wednesday. Addressing the event, the CM stated that the state government has expanded the sports budget from Rs. 2.5 crore two decades ago to the current figure of Rs. 293 crore. Consequently, the number of sports centers at the district level has multiplied eightfold over the last two decades.

He mentioned that Khel Mahakumbh, initiated by the Prime Minister in 2010, has left a significant impact on the sports landscape of the state. This initiative has created a platform for individuals of all ages—children, youth, and seniors—to display their sporting talents across various levels, thereby establishing a tradition of an illustrious sporting culture.

The CM motivated young athletes, stating that Gujarat has produced the best sports personalities at both the national and international levels, thanks to initiatives like Khel Mahakumbh.

CM Shri Bhupendra Patel emphasized that Swarnim Gujarat Sports University has emerged as a pivotal institution in fostering a sports culture in the state. Additionally, he noted that Gujarat has implemented a dedicated sports policy to nurture talents in the field of sports.

Sports Minister Shri Harsh Sangahvi, on this occasion, remarked that today marks the beginning of a new phase for Khel Mahakumbh. Furthermore, he noted that today, Khel Mahakumbh has evolved with the participation of 60 lakh players, a substantial increase from the 15 lakh players who participated in the event in 2010.

He additionally stated that a prize fund of Rs 45 crore has been allocated for 39 sports across 7 age groups. The sports competitions will be organized at the taluka level and in schools.

Sanghavi also highlighted that the National Games were swiftly organized in the state, and there are plans to establish sports centers in all talukas. He added that a stipend of Rs 1.63 lakh per student will be provided for the training of 4,890 players under the state’s DLSS.

During this event, the winners of the Para Asian Games 2023, as well as those at the National and International levels, were honored with the Khel Pratibha Rokad Puraskar.