Nashik: In an era where Indian women are achieving remarkable success on the international stage, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Nikhil Khadse, has emphasized the importance of women learning self-defence skills to safeguard themselves. Speaking at the West Zone Asmita Judo League, held at the Meenatai Thakre Stadium in Panchavati, Nashik, on Sunday, the minister stressed the growing need for self-protection in today’s world, particularly for women and children.
The Asmita Judo League, organized under the Khelo India initiative by the Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, aims to provide young women the opportunity to develop both athletic and life-saving skills. Running from August 31 to September 3, the event has attracted 800 participants across four categories: senior, junior, cadet, and sub-junior.
Khadse highlighted that beyond the competitive aspect, the league seeks to instill social awareness and boost the confidence of young women through the practice of judo. “Judo is one of the best ways to learn self-defence. In today’s world, it is very important to learn self-defence, especially for women and kids,” the minister stated, pointing out the increasing instances where women must be able to protect themselves.
Promising full support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Khadse advocated for early education in self-defence. She also announced plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to expand the reach of the Asmita program to schools across the country, ensuring that self-defence training becomes widely accessible.
The West Zone judo league has attracted participants from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Daman and Diu, and other states. Khadse urged parents to encourage their children to take part in such activities, highlighting the importance of building both physical and mental strength.
With cash prizes totaling Rs. 4.26 lakh, the Asmita Judo League is set to provide not only an opportunity for women to excel in sports but also a platform to foster confidence and resilience.