Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that the government is committed to advancing the state in the field of sports. “We will leave no stone unturned in developing sports and athletes,” he emphasized.
Expressing his delight, CM Mohan Yadav announced that a proposal has been sent to the Central Government and the Indian Olympic Association to host the National Games in Madhya Pradesh. The 2028 National Games are proposed to be held between January and March.
CM Mohan Yadav instructed officials of the Sports Department to ensure timely and comprehensive preparations for the National Games. Hosting the National Games in Madhya Pradesh will be a matter of pride for the state, and there should be no shortfall in preparations. Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare Vishvas Kailash Sarang was also present in the meeting.
Water tourism is being promoted in the state
CM Mohan Yadav highlighted that water tourism is being actively promoted in the state. He directed that visitors to Bhopal should be able to enjoy natural and real experiences of water sports at both the Upper and Lower Lakes, with all necessary amenities and arrangements in place.
Asian Rowing Championship to be held in Bhopal
CM announced that the Asian Rowing Championship will be held from October 14 to 19, 2025 at the Water Sports Training Center in Khanugaon, Bhopal. Around 450 athletes from over 22 countries, along with 100 technical officials and 12 jury members, as well as water sports enthusiasts, are expected to participate.
CM Mohan Yadav directed that the Khanugaon venue be upgraded to meet international standards. This would enhance the branding of Bhopal Lake and strengthen the city’s bid to host water sports in the 2036 Olympic Games. The event will also benefit water sports, tourism, and local businesses in the state.
The Chief Minister instructed that preparations for the Asian Rowing Championship should begin immediately. Landscaping and leveling work at the venue should be completed promptly. He also proposed showcasing traditional Indian sports like Mallakhamb through international demo events and suggested including games like tug of war, Indian-style archery, shooting ball, and “pithoo” in the Khelo MP Games.
CM further directed that special focus be given to sports like Mallakhamb and Gymnastics, including efforts to establish international-level academies for these sports as required. He also said steps should be taken to establish a Sports University in Madhya Pradesh.
Sports Boosting Tourism in the State
The meeting revealed that to promote sports tourism and establish Madhya Pradesh as a sports hub, an international sports complex worth Rs. 985.76 crore is being developed in two phases at Nathu-Barkheda, Bhopal.