Madhya Pradesh's Talent Shines on Upper Lake's Waves as Bhopal Sailing Team Tops National Rankings
The third edition of the Raja Bhoj Multiclass National Sailing Championship (National Ranking) concluded on Sunday at the Water Sports Centre (Boat Club) on Bhopal’s Upper Lake. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav presented awards to the winning and runner-up teams and felicitated talented players and coaches from Madhya Pradesh who delivered outstanding performances in various categories.
The Bhopal sailing team put up an excellent performance to win the national-ranking championship and earn widespread appreciation. The Goa sailing team finished runner-up, while the Secunderabad sailing team secured third place.
Sports and Youth Welfare and Cooperation Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang was also present on the occasion.
CM said that sports are an integral part of our identity. Sporting activities in Bhopal have grown rapidly over the past few years. Of the 18 major sports disciplines, academies for 11 sports are currently operational in Bhopal.
Govt to develop Bhopal as the sports capital
CM said that after hosting national-level sporting events, the State is now moving towards hosting international-level competitions as well. He said that the government wants to develop Bhopal as the sports capital. For this purpose, the Sports Department’s budget has been increased every year. The government is also preparing to establish one stadium in each of the State’s 230 Assembly constituencies to provide players with quality sports facilities.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Madhya Pradesh’s performance in sports has been improving consistently. Once ranked 17th, the State has now risen to third position in the country through its improved performance.
CM said that India is steadily advancing in the world of sports. India has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, while efforts are also underway to secure the opportunity to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
The Chief Minister said that it is a matter of pride for Madhya Pradesh to witness the talent of some of the country's finest sailors performing on the waves of its lakes.
Bhopal to Get a Sports Museum
Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang said under the Chief Minister’s guidance, a sports museum will also be established in Bhopal. He said that besides hosting various water sports competitions on Bhopal’s Upper Lake, shikaras are also now operating on the lake. The State Government is moving ahead with a holistic approach to the development of sports and tourism. He added that Players from Madhya Pradesh are now bringing medals from competitions across the country and the world and making the State proud.
Winning Bhopal Sailing Team Honoured
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav and Sports Minister Sarang presented awards to the winning Bhopal team and the runner-up Goa team. CM felicitated members of the winning team, including Vasu Chandravanshi, Mahi Verma, Tulsi Patle, Eklavya Batham, Vanshika Sikarwar, Ian Patidar, Prarthana Bhoi, Ankit Sisodia, Samar Pancheshwar and Siddhi Tandon, along with the team’s coaches Shri G.L. Yadav, Shri Ram Milan, Shri Narendra S. Rajput and Shri Anil Sharma