Sports Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar Attends Sport India Conference in New Delhi

New Delhi : Today, the Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) and the Sport India Foundation jointly organized the Sport India Conference 2024 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Mizoram’s Sports Minister, Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, graced the event as an esteemed guest, along with Madhya Pradesh Sports Minister, Pu Vishvas Kailash Sarang, who was the chief guest.

In his opening remarks at the Sport India Conference, Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar emphasized that sports are not just a means of recreation but a vital tool for youth employment and for enhancing India’s global reputation. He highlighted Mizoram’s remarkable achievements in football over the past decade, noting that 192 players from the state have participated in top-tier leagues like the Indian Super League (ISL). He stressed the importance of nurturing talent from the grassroots level to achieve success in sports and mentioned that excellence in sports requires a collective effort, especially when aiming for Olympic success.

Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar also mentioned that India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympic Games and that Mizoram had already taken steps in this direction by organizing the Mizoram Sports Conclave on June 13-14, 2024. He noted that while cricket is India’s most popular sport, it is crucial to focus on other Olympic sports disciplines for the country’s broader athletic success.

As per the organizers’ request, Mizoram’s Sports Minister participated in a panel discussion where he discussed the state’s ambitious sports coaching projects and the importance of developing talent across all regions of Mizoram. Responding to the moderator’s question, Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar stated, “Mizoram is actively working to promote hockey. Hockey has historically been a symbol of India’s sporting excellence and global recognition. We are committed to advancing both women’s and men’s hockey in Mizoram, and we are confident in our ability to produce top-tier players.”

The Sport India Conference also featured discussions on how sports can contribute to economic development, with a focus on the impact of professional leagues and sports tourism. The conference brought together sports administrators from various Indian states, leaders in the sports industry, representatives from private organizations, sports university officials, and other key stakeholders. In conjunction with the conference, the Sports India Expo is being held from August 29 to 31, 2024, at Pragati Maidan, where participants are showcasing their contributions to India’s sports industry.