“Sports Minister Sanjay Bansode Promises Equal Opportunities for Boys and Girls on Olympic Day”

Pune : Sports Minister Sanjay Bansode emphasized the importance of providing equal opportunities for boys and girls in sports, asserting that the Maharashtra government will lead this initiative in India.

He made this statement in Pune at the Olympic Day program organized by the Maharashtra Olympic Association in collaboration with the Maharashtra Directorate of Sports.

Minister Bansode announced various government decisions, expressing pride in the athletes from Maharashtra who have excelled in Khelo India and national competitions. He highlighted Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s prompt action in increasing award amounts for these athletes. Additionally, he mentioned that Rs 5 crores are being allocated to taluka sports complexes and Rs 10 crores to district complexes to enhance sports facilities. Bansode assured that if Maharashtra’s athletes continue to perform consistently, this amount will be tripled.

He also promised a grand ceremony for the distribution of the delayed Shiv Chhatrapati Awards, following a request from the Olympic Association.

Expressing India’s readiness to host the Olympic Games, Minister Bansode stated that efforts will be made to bring the Olympics to Maharashtra. He emphasized his commitment to understanding and resolving the challenges faced by athletes. Despite some delays, he assured that the Shiv Chhatrapati Award distribution ceremony will be scheduled soon and held in a grand manner. He also announced Rs 7 lakh in financial assistance for indoor sports facilities.

Olympic shooter Anjali Bhagwat spoke about the significance of the Olympics, describing it as more than just a sporting event but a movement. She highlighted the sacrifices athletes make for their sport and the pride of participating in the Olympics. Bhagwat also stressed the need for better arrangements to support athletes.

Former Indian hockey captain Dhanraj Pillay echoed the Minister’s announcements, emphasizing the need to ensure fairness for athletes.

Many Olympians and international athletes, including Dhanraj Pillay, Anjali Bhagwat, Devinder Valmiki, and Vikram Pillay, attended the ceremony. The event began with a sports rally, featuring wreath-laying at the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and included various sports demonstrations such as gymnastics, wushu, martial arts, boxing, taekwondo, yogasana, and mallakhamb.

Minister Bansode felicitated the present Olympians at a ceremony held after the rally, celebrating their contributions to sports in India.