- Chief Minister Shri Sai attended the concluding ceremony of the First All India Weightlifting Cluster Championship 2024-25 held at the First Battalion Chhattisgarh Armed Force Complex in Bhilai on September 27
- Chief Minister Shri Sai announced to provide a grant of Rs. 1 crore for an indoor stadium located in the First Battalion Bhilai
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai graced the closing ceremony of the First All India Weightlifting Cluster Championship 2024-25, held at the First Battalion Chhattisgarh Armed Force Complex in Bhilai on September 27. During his address, he affirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting sports in Chhattisgarh, stating that every effort is being made to provide athletes with the necessary support. In a significant announcement, he also declared a grant of Rs. 1 crore to complete the ongoing construction of the indoor stadium at the First Battalion Bhilai. The championship started on September 23.
The Chief Minister lauded the enthusiasm of the police personnel for actively engaging in sports despite their duties, emphasising how regular participation in sports fosters fitness. He further highlighted that India’s spirit of unity in diversity is well-represented through sports, noting that weightlifting, in particular, brings to light the immense physical capabilities of the human body.
Shri Sai elaborated on the coordinated efforts of both the Central and State Governments in promoting sports, underscoring Chhattisgarh’s strides in enhancing sports infrastructure. He announced the forthcoming Bastariya Olympics, which aim to celebrate and promote sports in Bastar, a region that is gradually witnessing the return of peace after years of unrest. He explained that once peace is restored, cultural and sporting activities naturally flourish. Additionally, the state government is launching the ‘Chhattisgarh Krida Protsahan Yojana’ to encourage traditional sports and will soon establish a centre of the Laxmibai National Institute of Physical Education in the state to nurture sports talent. The Chief Minister reiterated the state’s focus on a wide range of sports, mentioning ongoing efforts to support athletics, Kabaddi, and archery academies.
At the event, Sports Minister Shri Tankram Verma shared the state government’s vision for Chhattisgarh’s athletes to achieve notable success on the national and international stage, bringing pride to the state and country. DGP Shri Ashok Juneja spoke about the significance and objectives of the All India Weightlifting Cluster Championship, emphasising the vital role of sports in fostering physical and mental well-being. Additional DGP Shri Vivekanand Sinha delivered the welcome address.
The ceremony recognised the athletes who excelled in the championship, with winners being honoured for their exceptional performances. The event also featured a colourful march-past by the athletes and cultural presentations by the participants. At the conclusion, Commander Shri Rajesh Kukreja of the First Battalion Chhattisgarh Armed Forces Bhilai extended his gratitude to all attendees.
Sports Minister Shri Tankram Verma, MP Shri Vijay Baghel, Durg City MLA Shri Gajendra Yadav, Ahiwara MLA Shri Domnlal Korsewada, former MLA Shri Labhchand Bafna, DGP Shri Ashok Juneja, Additional DGP Shri Vivekanand Sinha, Commander of the First Battalion Chhattisgarh Armed Forces Bhilai Shri Rajesh Kukreja, Divisional Commissioner Shri S.N. Rathore, Collector Sushri Richa Prakash Chaudhary, SP Shri Jitendra Shukla, and other senior officials from the police department and public representatives were present.