MP: Bhopal will become international rowing hub; delegation from Rowing Federation of India meets Minister Vishwas Sarang for hosting Asian Rowing Championship 2026-27
Bhopal: A significant step has been taken towards establishing Madhya Pradesh as a major hub for international sports events. A delegation from the Rowing Federation of India (RFI), led by Secretary General Subhashit Mukherjee, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister for Cooperatives, Sports, and Youth Welfare, Vishwas Kailash Sarang, at his residence. They held detailed discussions regarding Bhopal's bid to host the 2027 Asian Rowing Championship and the Asian Rowing Cup-1.
While submitting a formal proposal to Minister Sarang, the delegation requested the Madhya Pradesh government to partner with the Rowing Federation of India and present a strong, effective bid to the Asian Rowing Federation to secure hosting rights for Bhopal on behalf of India.
Upper Lake is India's strongest contender to host this competition
The delegation highlighted that Bhopal's Upper Lake is India's strongest contender to host this prestigious Asian competition, citing its natural features, rowing facilities that meet international standards, experience in successfully hosting national competitions, and the continuous support of the state government. The event would bring top Asian athletes, technical officials, and sports administrators to Bhopal, thereby garnering global recognition for Madhya Pradesh's sports infrastructure, tourism, and event-hosting capabilities.
Madhya Pradesh is rapidly establishing itself as country's Sports Capital
Minister Sarang stated that Madhya Pradesh is rapidly establishing itself as the country's 'Sports Capital.' World-class sports infrastructure is being developed in the state, and all necessary arrangements are being put in place to successfully host international-level competitions.
Madhya Pradesh government would extend all possible support
Minister Sarang assured that the Madhya Pradesh government would extend all possible support to secure the hosting rights for the 2027 Asian Rowing Championship and Asian Rowing Cup-1 for Bhopal. He remarked that hosting this prestigious event would be a matter of pride for the state and would elevate sports tourism, the local economy, youth interest in rowing, and Madhya Pradesh's global profile to new heights.
Asian Rowing Federation has invited proposals from member nations
The Asian Rowing Federation has invited proposals from member nations to host the 2027 events. The selection process entails completing formalities related to detailed bid documents, technical presentations, site inspections, and various procedural stages. The Madhya Pradesh government's support throughout this process will further strengthen India's bid.
Rowing in the state to be developed
During the meeting, detailed discussions were also held regarding strategies for the comprehensive development of rowing in the state, creating better opportunities for athletes, and establishing Bhopal as an international rowing destination.
Minister Sarang expressed confidence that, backed by its excellent sports infrastructure, administrative capability, and commitment to sports, Bhopal would successfully host this prestigious Asian event and bring glory to the nation.