Team India skipper Virat Kohli on Monday lauded PM Narendra Modi’s Khelo India initiative and was positive it will have a fruitful outcome. Taking to Twitter, Kohli also lauded Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore over the Cabinet clearance granted to this scheme. “‘Khelo india’ a much-awaited initiative by our Hon’ble PM & SportsMinister.Surely this will catalyse sports in India,(sic)” Kohli said. Earlier in the day, government approved Rs 1756 crore for a period of three years for the revamping of ‘Khelo India’, an initiative launched by the ministry last year. Modi government had launched the project last year by merging three schemes — Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan, Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme and National Sports Talent Search Programme.
Speaking to media, Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore will look to ensure all-round growth in its revamped form. “A holistic approach has to be taken and there will be a seamless network which will enable a pathway from schools to Olympics,” Rathore, who recently took charge, was quoted as saying. “In the age group of 10 to 18, health end education will be mapped and schools will be graded. Sports facilities will also be mapped with geographical location. Sports and education will be mixed,” he added.
‘Khelo india’ a much awaited initiative by our hon’ble PM & SportsMinister.Surely this will catalyse sports in India.@narendramodi @Ra_THORe https://t.co/vpQkBmrdK0
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 20, 2017
As per PTI, Khelo India programme aims to promote 20 universities across the country as hubs of sporting excellence, which would enable talented sportspersons to pursue the dual pathway of education and competitive sports. Very soon, sports-specific Mobile Apps, equipped with relevant information, will be launched, Rathore said. “The Apps will have tips for athletes and information of Indian and international athletes.” Under the scheme, efforts will be made to upgrade and educate coaches at the community level, Rathore said.
