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(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Nurturing Sports Talent in Rural India

(NOVEMBER-2023)

Nurturing Sports Talent in Rural India

Introduction:

The commitment of the government to building and upgrading sports infrastructure in rural regions is not only empowering athletes but also bridging urban-rural divides and enhancing the well-being of communities.
These efforts are vital in defeating drug abuse, as they provide rural youth with a constructive and purposeful path, diverting their energy toward healthier and more fulfilling pursuits.

Sports in Rural India

In India, sports have long been a staple of everyday life. Numerous pieces of evidence exist to support the presence of thriving sports in India. There are several instances of sports, including archery, wrestling, horseriding, and chariot racing, throughout our epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
For instance, archery has always been a very popular sport, dating back to the Mahabharata era; it was one of the prime warfare skills during that period. Reputed teachers such as Parasurama, Drona, and Agnivesha, elevated archery to the highest level and trained their students, like Arjuna, who became outstanding archers.
Our country has had numerous remarkable victories at several international competitions, including World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and the Asian Games. However, one of the greatest things to have happened in the world of archery is the evolution and growth of women archers.

Initiatives to Strengthen Sports in Rural Areas

One of the major schemes of the Union Government - the Khelo India Scheme - is being implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports through its five verticals, which promote sports in the entire country including the rural areas.
Khelo India is the basic platform to showcase sporting skills and spot talent at the national level. It also provides development pathways for gifted and talented children to achieve excellence.
Under the ‘Talent Search and Development’ vertical of this scheme, Khelo India Athletes are identified, selected, and provided annual financial assistance of ₹6.28 lakh per annum per athlete, which includes ₹1.20 lakh as Out-of-Pocket Allowance and ₹5.08 lakh for other facilities like coaching, sports science support, diet, equipment, consumables, insurance charges, etc.

Emphasis on the Development of Sports Infrastructure

Sports form an important pillar of India’s holistic growth. Improving the available sports infrastructure or building new is a prime focus area of the Central Government.
Beyond just being arenas for athletic contests, these facilities become hubs of empowerment, unity, and opportunity. They provide young talents with access to the necessary resources and training enabling them to compete on a national and international stage. Moreover, sports infrastructure fosters a culture of physical fitness and well-being, reducing the prevalence of health issues in these areas. By investing in sports infrastructure in remote areas, we not only nurture sporting talents but also build healthier and more vibrant communities, bridging the urban-rural divide, and ensuring that every corner of our nation can partake in the benefits of sports.

Sports as a Catalyst to Defeat Drug Abuse

Engaging the youth in sports offers significant socioeconomic advantages while simultaneously acting as a powerful deterrent against drug abuse in rural parts of the country. Thus, investing in sports not only cultivates skilled athletes but also nurtures responsible, resilient, and drug-free individuals, who contribute meaningfully to society.

Women Athletes Making India Proud

The Asian Games 2022 has been historic for our nation, as an event that will be cherished forever. India bagged its highest-ever medals (107) in 60 years with 75 per cent more gold medals than in Asian Games 2018 and bagged medals in 16 new sporting categories is a testament to not just our growing bench strength but also to the creation of a sports ecosystem where support is being extended at every level. The remarkable achievement of our women athletes in this tournament, who clinched around 50% of the total medals of Indian Contingent, is a testament to their unwavering dedication, talent, and hard work.

Way forward and Conclusion

The stories of various rural athletes excelling in sports, and women athletes making India proud at International events paint a vivid picture of the transformative power of sports in the country. India's focus on promoting sports in rural areas is driving the growth of sporting talents and fostering a culture of fitness and competition.
The commitment of the Government to building and upgrading sports infrastructure in rural regions is not only empowering athletes but also bridging urban-rural divides and enhancing the well-being of communities. These efforts are vital in defeating drug abuse, as they provide rural youth with a constructive and purposeful path, diverting their energy toward healthier and more fulfilling pursuits.
Furthermore, as India celebrates its remarkable achievements in sports, it is crucial to acknowledge the inspiring journey of athletes, who emerge from humble beginnings, defying the odds to secure victories on the global stage. These stories remind us that talent knows no boundaries and that dedication and passion can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.
As the nation strives to create a sports ecosystem that encourages and supports athletes at all levels, it is evident that India's sporting future is promising and that the youth are increasingly choosing sports over drugs. This transformation, driven by governmental support and individual determination, not only strengthens India's presence in the international sports arena but also nurtures a healthier, more active, and more united society.