Synopsis
On January 30, 2023, in Dehradun, Vijay Kumar from Chhattisgarh won the gold medal in the 55kg weightlifting category at the 38th National Games, equaling the National Record by lifting 143 kg.Key Takeaways
- Vijay Kumar wins gold in 55kg weightlifting.
- Equalled the National Record at 143 kg.
- Award ceremony celebrated athletes’ achievements.
- Maharashtra government supports Kho Kho players.
- Significant cash prizes awarded to players and coaches.
Dehradun, Jan 30 (NationPress) Chhattisgarh's Vijay Kumar made history by securing the gold medal in the 55kg men’s weightlifting event at the 38th National Games on Thursday, matching the National Record with a clean and jerk lift of 143 kg.
The award ceremony celebrated the exceptional contributions of athletes to India's triumph in the tournament, with most participants hailing from Maharashtra. The government has also extended job offers to many players, enhancing prospects for aspiring Kho Kho athletes in the region.
Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ajit Pawar showered accolades on the athletes and tweeted, "The players of the Indian men's and women's teams, who clinched the title at the inaugural World Kho Kho Championship in New Delhi, along with their coaches, honored me with a courtesy visit in Pune. I warmly congratulated them and presented them with accolades. Wishing all players continued success in their careers!".
The state government awarded each player a cash prize of Rs. 2.25 crore, while coaches received Rs. 22.5 lakh each as a token of gratitude for their extraordinary achievements. The ceremony was particularly significant due to the presence of team captains Pratik Waikar and Priyanka Ingle, whose leadership was pivotal in India's success.
President of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), Sudhanshu Mittal, highlighted the importance of this achievement for global promotion of the sport. "This remarkable victory has showcased India's prowess in Kho Kho on an international platform. These accolades will motivate the upcoming generation of players to excel in this traditional sport as we aim to elevate Kho Kho to the Olympic level. I am sincerely thankful for the Maharashtra Government's support in advancing Kho Kho, and these incentives are a positive step forward," he remarked.
Maharashtra has long been a cradle for sports, particularly Kho Kho. The state has produced exceptional talent in this popular sport, bolstered by a club culture that fosters healthy competition among players, ultimately benefiting Kho Kho as a whole.
Moreover, Kho Kho athletes enjoy promising employment opportunities, providing them with a sense of security. Each member of the victorious national team receives INR 7 lakh in prize money. The Shiv Chhatrapati Award, a prestigious annual sports accolade presented by the Maharashtra Government, recognizes the accomplishments of athletes and contributors to sports in the state.
The government's generous rewards not only acknowledge the players' commitment and efforts but also underline Maharashtra's pivotal role in fostering Kho Kho, recognized as the birthplace of the sport. This acknowledgment is anticipated to elevate the sport's popularity among youth and contribute to its growth at both national and international levels.
