Haryana CM honors Asian Games champions and pledges to establish sports facilities

In a grand ceremony held in Karnal, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar celebrated the achievements of state athletes who excelled in the 19th Asian Games in China. Impressed by their performance, he announced the establishment of two shooting ranges and two archery ranges within the state to encourage youth participation in sports. Besides cash rewards, each medalist was promised 15 kg of desi ghee.

Haryana proudly showcased its contribution to Indian sports by winning a significant share of the country's medals at the international level, according to the CM. Of the 44 medals secured by Indian athletes at the 2023 Asian Games, 30 were claimed by the 80 Haryana-based participants.

Dhakad athletes and recognitions

CM Khattar described Haryana's athletes as "Dhakad Jawan, Dhakad Kisand, and Dhakad Pehalwan." He awarded gold medalists with ₹3 crore, silver medalists with ₹1.5 crore, and bronze medalists with ₹75 lakh. Additionally, the medalists received commendation letters and job offers, as per the state's sports policy.

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Khattar announced plans to establish two shooting ranges, one in Nimana village (Jhajjar district) and another in Sector 32 (Panchkula). Two archery centers will be set up, one in Tejli Stadium (Yamunanagar district) and the other in the District Sports Complex (Faridabad).

The CM committed to formulating a policy to provide sports equipment for local sports events at the village level. Smaller and local sports events, not included in the list of national games, will be recognized with cash awards, similar to mainstream sports.

Khelo India centers and expansion

Ten Khelo India Centers were inaugurated in Haryana, with five more planned for next year. Khattar requested the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, to approve the establishment of Khelo India Centers in the remaining 17 districts of Haryana, ensuring that centers are opened in all 22 districts.

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The CM expressed his gratitude to parents and coaches who have supported and inspired the athletes. While 22 medallists from the state attended the program, some, like Olympic gold medalist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, couldn't make it due to prior commitments.