It was a historic moment for Indian Sports. With the launch of Khelo India University Games, India has entered the league of countries where
university games are organised at this level, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi launching the inaugural edition of the Khelo India University Games which kicked off at the Indoor Stadium here on Saturday.
Speaking to the gathering through videoconferencing from New Delhi, the PM declared the games open and exhorted the athletes to better their performances.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, “It is a moment of great pride for us to be hosting the first edition of the Khelo India University Games, here in Odisha in association with the Government of India and the KIIT University.
The games will provide a great platform to showcase sporting talent at the national level.
“I welcome all of you to the sport-loving State of Odisha. I wish all the athletes the very best for their sporting events,” Patnaik added.
A45-minute colourful cultural and entertainment show marked the ceremony, in which Union
Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju were present.
As many as 4,000 spectators enjoyed the dazzling ceremony in the stadium even as many watched it on LED screens outside it.
