Khelo India Youth Games 2023: Maharashtra Wins Big, Tamil Nadu Second, Haryana Third

The sixth edition of the Khelo India Youth Games-2023 concluded with Maharashtra securing 158 medals, Tamil Nadu and Haryana finished second and third respectively.

The sixth edition of the Khelo India Youth Games-2023, held across four districts in Tamil Nadu, concluded on Wednesday, January 31, with Maharashtra emerging as the overall champion. The 13-day event witnessed intense competition among young athletes from across the country, with Maharashtra securing a total of 158 medals, including 57 gold, 48 silver, and 53 bronze medals.

Maharashtra Dominates Medal Tally

Maharashtra's impressive performance placed them firmly at the top of the medal tally, followed by the host state Tamil Nadu and Haryana in second and third positions, respectively. Tamil Nadu bagged 98 medals, comprising 38 gold, 21 silver, and 39 bronze medals, while Haryana secured 103 medals, including 35 gold, 22 silver, and 46 bronze medals.

Union Sports Minister Praises Khelo India Initiative

Addressing the glittering closing ceremony in Chennai, Union Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur lauded the Khelo India Games as a platform that empowers young athletes to showcase their talent. He emphasized that the initiative, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has grown in stature with each edition, attracting thousands of young athletes from across the country.

Humble Backgrounds of Athletes Highlighted

Thakur highlighted the humble backgrounds of several athletes who excelled at the games. He mentioned Panchami Sonowal of Assam, the daughter of a tea seller, who broke three national youth records in the 49kg weightlifting category. Other athletes from modest backgrounds, such as Durga Singh of Bihar and Jyoshna Sabar of Odisha, also achieved remarkable feats during the competition.

Tamil Nadu Sports Minister Expresses Pride

Tamil Nadu Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin expressed pride in the state's successful hosting of the Khelo India Youth Games 2023. He acknowledged the participation of over 5,400 athletes from across the country and highlighted Tamil Nadu's largest-ever contingent of around 600 athletes in this edition of the games.

Launch of Kalaignar Sports Kit Scheme

During the closing ceremony, Udhayanidhi Stalin announced the launch of the Kalaignar Sports Kit scheme in 12,000 village panchayats across Tamil Nadu. The scheme aims to provide sports equipment to young athletes, fostering their sporting talents and encouraging participation in various sports.

The successful conclusion of the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 in Tamil Nadu marked a significant milestone in India's sporting landscape. The event provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills, while also inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in sports. With the continued support of the government and stakeholders, the Khelo India initiative is poised to play a vital role in nurturing sporting talent and promoting a culture of physical fitness among the youth of India.