Maharashtra Police Showcases Physical Strength and Competitive Spirit – Deputy CM Eknath Shinde

Grand Inauguration of the 35th Maharashtra State Police Sports Championship in Thane

This Sports Championship is Maharashtra’s ‘Maha Olympics’

Thane : The Maharashtra State Police Sports Championship is regarded as Maharashtra’s ‘Maha Olympics,’ providing an opportunity for police personnel to demonstrate their physical strength and competitive spirit, stated Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Thane, Eknath Shinde.

The grand inauguration of the 35th Maharashtra State Police Sports Championship 2025 took place at Saket Ground in Thane, officiated by Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Organized by the Thane Police Commissionerate after 12 years, this event marks a significant moment in the state’s sports calendar.

The event was attended by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam, Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla, and senior police officials from across the state. Also present were Thane District Collector Ashok Shingare, Thane Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, MLA Sanjay Kelkar, and MLA Niranjan Davkhare.

In his speech, Deputy CM Shinde praised the dedication and sportsmanship of Maharashtra Police personnel. Referring to DGP Rashmi Shukla as the “beloved sister” of the force, he urged the athletes to showcase their strength and discipline on the global stage.

Highlighting the importance of fitness in policing, Shinde stated, “To uphold the mission of the police force, fitness is non-negotiable. Sports improve both mental and physical health while fostering teamwork, leadership, and confidence among officers.”

He also noted that the government is making every effort to enhance police efficiency by providing the best facilities and infrastructure. He emphasized that the conviction rate in court cases remains satisfactory due to the relentless efforts of the police force.

Recognizing the need for better sports infrastructure, Shinde directed Thane District Collector Ashok Shingare to install a synthetic track and high-mast lighting at Saket Ground. These improvements will benefit both the Thane Police and local athletes.

Encouraging the participants, Shinde remarked, “Winning or losing doesn’t matter; every participant is a winner. Maharashtra Police is ‘Player No. 1,’ and this championship is the best opportunity to prove it to the world.”

He also lauded Maharashtra’s Force One team for their outstanding performance in the All India Police Championship, where they won the Chakravyuh Urban Warfare Trophy and the Chakravyuh Jungle Warfare Trophy.

Expressing confidence in the Maharashtra Police’s continued excellence in national and international sports competitions, Shinde assured that the government will provide all necessary facilities to maintain its reputation as one of the best forces in India.

Concluding his speech with an inspiring quote, he said, “Crying ruins one’s fate, courage shapes it. Losing doesn’t make one a pauper, and winning doesn’t make one Alexander.”

Thane Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre expressed satisfaction over the successful organization of the championship. Scheduled from February 22 to March 1, 2025, the tournament features 18 different sports disciplines.

A total of 13 teams from the Maharashtra Police force are participating, with 2,929 athletes (2,323 men and 606 women) competing in various categories.

The championship will continue until March 1, 2025, where police personnel will showcase discipline, endurance, and sportsmanship in their quest for excellence. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will be the chief guest at the closing ceremony on March 1, 2025.