By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 19 Feb: The recently concluded 38th National Games brought a moment of unity in the Assembly on Wednesday, as both ruling and opposition members praised the successful conduct of the event. Sports Minister Rekha Arya described it as a significant achievement for the entire Assembly and the state.
During the Question Hour, in response to a query, Sports Minister Rekha Arya stated that the government successfully organised the event in just 108 days of preparation. She highlighted the remarkable performance of the state’s athletes, who achieved a century of medals, further elevating the event’s success. The minister emphasised that international-standard equipment and world-class sports infrastructure were used, a fact acknowledged not only by the state but also by athletes and supporting staff from across the country. She also stated that by organising “Green Games,” Uttarakhand has sent a strong message to the world.
Responding to a question about sports facilities for girls, Minister Rekha Arya announced that Uttarakhand’s first Girls’ Sports College is proposed to be established in Lohaghat, Champawat. This college will admit female students from all districts, from grades 6 to 12. She added that the number of sports disciplines in the college will be gradually increased, and the government aims to establish more such colleges in other districts.
Additionally, she mentioned that several sports hostels dedicated to girls are already operating in different locations. The minister highlighted that 50% of the financial assistance provided by the government for emerging athletes is allocated to girls, ensuring their growth in sports.
During the National Games discussion, the opposition could only raise concerns about the abbreviation of Indira Gandhi’s name on the invitation card for the closing ceremony, questioning why her full name was not mentioned. Minister Arya responded that the name was indeed present, as per the opposition’s own argument.
Interestingly, the opposition was unable to point out any shortcomings in the organisation of the event, instead focusing entirely on the name of a former Prime Minister from the Gandhi family. Regarding the Haldwani Stadium, Minister Arya clarified that, while the Congress government initiated its construction, it was the BJP government that completed it to the required standards and officially took it over. She added that had the initial construction met quality standards, the stadium would have been handed over much earlier.
