By OUR STAFF REPORTER
DEHRADUN, 27 Jan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the National Games in Dehradun on Tuesday as all eyes are currently turned towards Uttarakhand as the state gets ready to host the Games. This is the first time in the history of Uttarakhand to host the National Games, and the Dhami government is closely monitoring every aspect of the arrangements for this sports festival. Players from all over the country are convering in Dehradun for the Games.
A total of 9,545 athletes will participate, with the number of people, including support staff, expected to reach around 16,000. Out of the total 9,857 registered players, 8,627 have already confirmed their participation, excluding golf (104) and Taekwondo (208). With the addition of technical officials, support staff, and sports officials, the total number is projected to reach around 17,000 to 18,000. The 38th National Games marks a historic event in Uttarakhand’s silver jubilee year. Among the athletes, there are 4,701 female athletes and 4,844 male athletes. In addition, there are 2,259 technical officials, 41 doctors, 1,376 sports-specific volunteers, and 2,573 team officials, bringing the total number of participants to approximately 17,000. The athletes will compete in 34 sports, with the highest participation in athletics: Athletics: 700, Triathlon: 128, Kho-Kho: 240, Wushu: 390, Shooting: 400, Badminton: 240, Football: 352, Rafting: 136, Rugby: 192, Weightlifting: 160, Squash: 192, Boxing: 208, Yogasana: 272, Archery: 288, Rowing: 240, Hockey: 360, Lawn Tennis: 100, Netball: 352, Modern Pentathlon: 320, Gymnastics: 350, Table Tennis: 136, Fencing: 264, Judo: 253, Wrestling: 288, Clear Pattu: 220, Mallakhamb: 192, Lawn Bowling: 112, Acoustic: 588, Cycling: 432, Canoeing and Kayaking: 224, Handball: 416, Kabaddi: 288, Volleyball: 256, Basketball: 256.
