Bihar‍ to Host 7th Khelo India Youth Games in 2025

Patna, Bihar – Building on its experience hosting major sporting events, including the Women’s Asian Hockey Championship 2024, Bihar is set to host the 7th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG)⁤ starting May 4, 2025. The opening ceremony⁣ in Patna is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with Chief Minister Nitish ‍Kumar and other dignitaries in attendance.

The event marks a importent moment for Bihar, placing it at the forefront of India’s sporting narrative. With the slogan “Khelega Bihar, Khilega bihar” (Bihar will play, ⁣Bihar will flourish), the state aims to transform its sports culture from the grassroots level to a global stage.

extensive Participation Expected

the ⁤7th edition of the Khelo India Youth ⁤Games anticipates participation from over 9,378 athletes,⁢ coaches, physiotherapists, and support staff representing 36 states and union territories. Competitions will span 27 sports disciplines.

Diverse Sporting Events

The games will feature mainstream events such as ⁤athletics, boxing, and wrestling,⁣ alongside traditional and indigenous sports including Mallakhamb, Thang Ta, Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Yogasan.

Geographically Diverse Games

For the ⁢first time as the ⁢event’s launch ⁤in 2018, the games will be held ⁣across five major cities in Bihar: Patna, Rajgir (Nalanda), Gaya, Bhagalpur, and⁢ Begusarai. This makes it the most geographically thorough⁤ KIYG to date.

The Khelo India initiative aims to identify and nurture talent at the grassroots level, playing a crucial role in revitalizing‍ and strengthening India’s sports ecosystem.

Sports included

The complete⁣ list of sports includes: athletics, archery, badminton, basketball, boxing, cycling ‍(road and track), fencing, football, gatka, gymnastics, hockey, judo, kabaddi, kalaripayattu, kho-kho, ⁢mallakhamb, rugby, sepak takraw, shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, weightlifting, wrestling, and yogasana.

State Government ⁣Preparations

The state government has implemented comprehensive arrangements to ensure a smooth experience for ‍participants, covering food, accommodation, ‍transportation, and medical assistance. B Rajendra, Additional Chief Secretary (Sports), has issued directives for meticulous planning, including menu selection, hygiene ‍standards,⁣ and transportation provisions.

A centralized help desk will provide logistical and travel support. According to B Rajendra, “With its heritage of deep cultural roots and academic excellence, Bihar is now forging a new identity as India’s emerging sports hub.”