Khelo India University Games Wrestling Event Kicks Off in Nagaland

The 4th Khelo India University Games KIUG-Asthalaxmi wrestling event was inaugurated in Kohima, Nagaland, featuring freestyle and Greco-Roman style wrestling for men and free style for women. Around 100 universities from eight zones of India are participating in the event.

On Friday, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the 4th Khelo India University Games KIUG-Asthalaxmi wrestling event at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima. The event features freestyle and Greco-Roman style wrestling for men and freestyle wrestling for women, with grapplers from around 100 universities representing eight zones of India participating.

Promoting Sports and Education

In his address, Rio highlighted the growth of the Khelo India University Games since its inception in 2020, following the success of the Khelo India School Games and Khelo India Youth Games. He emphasized the games' objectives, which include fostering aspiration among budding athletes, benchmarking technical conduct with international standards, identifying talent, ensuring long-term athlete development, reducing dropouts, and promoting a sporting culture.

Creating a Strong Sports Ecosystem

Rio also spoke about the KIUG's role in creating a strong interlinked system of education and sports, serving as a breeding ground for champions, and boosting sports infrastructure and the sports ecosystem in universities. He expressed gratitude to the central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for providing Nagaland with the opportunity to host the 4th edition of KIUG, particularly in the popular sport of wrestling.

Event Details

Approximately 240 athletes and over 80 officials have gathered in Nagaland for the wrestling competition, which will conclude on Sunday.

The 4th Khelo India University Games KIUG-Asthalaxmi wrestling event in Nagaland showcases the state's commitment to promoting sports and education, while also providing a platform for talented athletes to shine and contribute to India's sporting success.