Synopsis
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini announced the construction of a hockey astro turf in Ambala district, alongside stadium renovations, during the Haryana Kabaddi Khel Mahakumbh. He commended the state's athletes for their international success in sports.Key Takeaways
- Haryana CM announces hockey astro turf project.
- Investment of Rs 14 crore for the project.
- Floodlights and stadium renovations included.
- Recognition of Haryana athletes' achievements.
- Stronghold of traditional sports in Haryana.
Chandigarh, Jan 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Haryana, Nayab Singh Saini, announced the establishment of a hockey astro turf at the village sports stadium during the 'Haryana Kabaddi Khel Mahakumbh' event held in Badagarh village, Ambala district, on Monday. The initiative, with a budget of Rs 14 crore, will also feature the installation of floodlights at the stadium. Additionally, Rs 5 crore will be allocated for the renovation of sports facilities in the villages of Laha and Bichpadi.
At the event, the Chief Minister recognized the winning teams in both the men's and women's competitions. He expressed pride in the players, stating that kabaddi encompasses not only physical strength but also strategic thinking.
He emphasized India's growing prowess in the Olympics and international sports, attributing much of this success to athletes from Haryana.
Recently, 11 athletes from Haryana were honored by President Draupadi Murmu, including a recipient of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and 10 Arjuna Award winners. Furthermore, one coach received the Dronacharya Award.
The Chief Minister stated that Haryana has been a bastion of traditional sports such as kabaddi, wrestling, and boxing, with athletes bringing recognition to both the state and the country through their accomplishments in various competitions.
Haryana's sports excellence has even attracted Bollywood, as seen in films like ‘Dangal’ and ‘Sultan’, which celebrate the triumphs of the state’s athletes.
Saini highlighted that Haryana has consistently performed well in sports, noting that out of the six medals won by India at the Paris Olympics 2024, five were earned by Haryana players. At the Tokyo Olympics 2020, 30 athletes from Haryana contributed to four of India's seven medals.
The state also excelled at the 2022 Asian Games, with 82 players representing Haryana and securing 28 of India’s 111 medals. Similarly, Haryana athletes shone at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, with 43 competitors bringing home 20 medals.
