Dainik Nation News Portal
DAINIK NATION BUREAU/HALDWANI
The 38th National Games concluded today at the International Sports Stadium in Gaulapar, Haldwani, in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Indian Olympic Association President Dr. P.T. Usha. During the ceremony Dr PT Usha formally declared the National Games closed, marking the end of a historic sporting event in Uttarakhand.
During the ceremony, the Union Home Minister felicitated Services, Maharashtra, and Haryana for securing the top three positions in the Games. He praised the state government for its remarkable efforts in enhancing sports infrastructure across Uttarakhand, crediting CM Dhami for elevating the state from the 25th to the 7th position in the National Games rankings. He also lauded Uttarakhand’s athletes for their outstanding performances, calling Devbhoomi a new land of sports.
Highlighting the state’s impeccable organization, Amit Shah commended the Uttarakhand government for overcoming geographical challenges to host the event seamlessly. He noted that Uttarakhand’s efforts were being applauded nationwide and acknowledged the dedication of the organizing committee and sports federations.
The Union Home Minister also appreciated the eco-friendly initiatives integrated into the Games, including tree plantations in honor of the athletes. He celebrated the emergence of new national records during the competition, expressing optimism about India’s medal prospects in upcoming international events. He further announced that the National Games torch would now pass from Uttarakhand to Meghalaya, where CM Conrad Sangma plans to involve all North Eastern states in fostering sports development.
Discussing India’s evolving sports landscape, Amit Shah credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for transforming the nation’s sports ecosystem through initiatives like Fit India and Khelo India. He emphasized the exponential increase in the sports budget, from ₹800 crore in 2014 to ₹3,800 crore in 2025-26, enabling better infrastructure, coaching, and transparent selection processes. He also expressed confidence in India’s ability to host the 2036 Olympics and predicted that Uttarakhand’s athletes would shine on the global stage.
In his speech, the Union Home Minister paid tribute to former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj and the Pulwama martyrs, recalling India’s decisive airstrikes under PM Modi’s leadership. He asserted that India’s firm stance had reshaped global perceptions, reinforcing the nation’s strength and resolve.
With the successful conclusion of the 38th National Games, Uttarakhand has firmly established itself as a premier sporting destination, setting new benchmarks for future events.
