Lucknow: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Monday that India was previously known mainly for cricket and hockey, but the nation is now building a unique reputation in major international sports competitions. Addressing the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh-2026 event, Singh noted that in the past, India often failed to win medals at the Olympics. However, the country is now making its mark in global sports arenas. He emphasized that sports in India have not always received the attention they merit, and it is essential to recognize their importance and support athletes to succeed. Singh highlighted a major shift in the sports landscape over the last 10 to 12 years. He pointed out previous neglect, where sports were rarely seen as a viable career, infrastructure was inadequate, and athletes’ needs were overlooked. In smaller towns, facilities fell short, stifling potential talent. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, the government is tackling these issues, Singh said, who represents Lucknow in Parliament. He mentioned that sports are now included as a subject in the National Education Policy, and the creation of the first National Sports University will boost this effort. Over the past 11 years, India has entered a new phase in sports, aiming not just for global prominence but also for societal empowerment through athletics. Singh praised the Khelo India initiative for increasing female participation, with the Women’s League held in various cities drawing large numbers of women. The program has also revived traditional Indian sports, offering scholarships for disciplines like Gatka, Mallakhamb, Thang-Ta, Kalaripayattu, and Yogasana. Modern sports facilities are now being built in rural and remote areas, including advanced grounds, stadiums, and training centers. In Uttar Pradesh, billions of rupees are invested in such projects. Singh compared spending, noting that the prior government allocated only Rs 300 crore over six years for urban sports infrastructure, while the current administration has invested nearly Rs 5,000 crore under Khelo India. This expansion has made sports more accessible to athletes. Singh added that Lucknow has a strong history in sports, and the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh aims to enhance this. He recalled that the first National Games post-independence occurred in Lucknow in 1948, and the city has since hosted various national and international events.
