Thiruvananthapuram: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, today lauded the significant rise in female athletes participating in national events, attributing this success to the Khelo India ASMITA Women League. While inaugurating a newly constructed 300-bedded girls’ hostel at SAI RC LNCPE, Thiruvananthapuram, the minister emphasized that this investment marks a key step towards nurturing future generations of women athletes in India.
Dr. Mandaviya also spoke about India’s ambitious target to secure a spot among the top 10 countries in the medal tally at the 2036 Olympics, reflecting the country’s growing sports infrastructure and talent pool. “Sports should not merely be seen as a path to government jobs,” he urged athletes. “Play for the nation, win medals, and bring glory to the country. Every victory represents the collective pride of the entire nation, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Panch Pran philosophy.”
The newly inaugurated hostel, built as part of the Khelo India infrastructure initiative, symbolizes the government’s dedication to improving the lives of young athletes. The project, completed by M/s WAPCOS within a budget of ₹32.88 crores, features a pentagonal design comprising five blocks, each with ground plus three storeys. This modern facility maximizes space while fostering a welcoming environment for athletes.
The hostel also boasts a centralized kitchen capable of serving 108 guests, along with dedicated dormitories for staff, storage rooms, and washing areas, ensuring a comfortable living experience for its residents.
Since the Khelo India scheme’s inception in 2014, 202 sports infrastructure projects have been successfully completed, with an additional 121 projects currently underway, according to Dr. Mandaviya. These projects aim to strengthen the country’s sports facilities and empower athletes at all levels.
As part of the inauguration event, Dr. Mandaviya also felicitated several sportspersons who have represented India in the Olympics, Asian Games, and other international competitions. The honored athletes included Arjuna awardees Padmini Thomas, S Omanakumari, Geethu Anna Jose, Saji Thomas, and V Diju, who received recognition from the minister for their contributions to Indian sports.
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