
Wrestling key to India's Olympic dream, says Union min in Kota
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Kota: The three-day
Under-20 National Wrestling Competition
concluded at Raghurai Sports Complex in Nayapura, Kota, Tuesday. Speaking at the closing ceremony, Union minister of state for sports Raksha Khadse said wrestling is deeply embedded in India's culture and will play a key role in the nation's bid to host the 2036 Olympics.
Khadse said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decade-long push to promote sports has improved training and infrastructure, boosting India's medal tally in international events. She stressed that beyond medals, the goal is to ensure the physical and mental fitness of the youth through initiatives like Fit India and
Khelo India
, which also instil unity and discipline.
State sports minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore announced the launch of the 'Target Olympic Podium Scheme' in the state, mirroring the national model. Under the scheme, 50 athletes will receive funding and the freedom to choose their coaches to prepare for international competitions. To strengthen grassroots fitness, Rathore said open gyms will be established at gram panchayat levels, furthering the
Fit India Movement
.
Rajasthan's minister of water Resources, Suresh Rawat, reaffirmed the govt's long-term commitment to support athletes and develop sports infrastructure.
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The event was attended by Indian Wrestling Federation president Sanjay Singh, former state minister Ramgopal Bairwa, and Anuj Chaudhary, a former international wrestler and deputy superintendent of police from Uttar Pradesh. The competition was organised by Rajasthan State Wrestling Association.
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