Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has performed remarkably in international sporting events, including the Olympics and the Asian Games. Athletes from Madhya Pradesh and across the country have set new records on the global stage. Sports play a vital role in developing leadership skills and multiple talents among the youth. The state government is fully committed to promoting skill development and sports among young people. Dr. Yadav shared these thoughts while addressing the gathering and athletes on the inauguration of the 42nd National Senior Rowing Championship on Monday. He, along with Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Shri Vishwas Kailash Sarang and other dignitaries, inaugurated the championship by releasing balloons into the sky at the State Water Sports Academy, located at Boat Club, Bhopal.
Organized by the Madhya Pradesh Sports and Youth Welfare Department, the five-day national competition will run until March 7. A total of 450+ male and female athletes from 27 teams, including participants from 23 states, the Indian Army, Navy, and All India Police Services, are competing in 14 events.
Extending his best wishes to the participants, Dr. Yadav compared the grand rowing competition in Bhopal to the Simhastha Kumbh in Ujjain. He highlighted how the championship is adding to the scenic beauty of Bhopal’s Upper Lake. He expressed confidence that the state's progressive sports policies would benefit young talents. The Madhya Pradesh government has established 11 sports academies for 18 different sports, including three water sports academies for kayaking, rowing, and sailing.
Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Shri Vishwas Sarang emphasized India's phenomenal achievements in sports over the past 10 years. He noted that Madhya Pradesh’s sports budget, which was once ₹6 crore, has now increased to ₹600 crore under the leadership of Dr. Yadav. In the National Games, Madhya Pradesh secured the third position in the medal tally, winning nine medals—five gold and four silver. The state secured the overall first position in water sports and holds the title of National Champion in Rowing.