By: Aditya Ahuja
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Friday. He also laid the foundation stone for several broadcasting projects of Doordarshan and All India Radio, worth approximately Rs 250 crore.
The broadcasting sector projects include the launch of the revamped DD Podhigai channel as DD Tamil, 12 Akashvani FM projects in eight states covering 1.5 crore people, and 4 DD transmitters in Jammu
and Kashmir.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for 26 new FM transmitter projects in 12 states.
During his address, referring to the projects inaugurated today, the Prime Minister stated that the Chennai Kendra of Doordarshan, which began broadcasting in 1975, has undergone a transformation in appearance and is embarking on a new journey.
Addressing the athletes and sports enthusiasts present at the event, PM Modi expressed his best wishes, stating, “I extend my best wishes to all the athletes and sports lovers who have come to Chennai from across the country. Together, you are showcasing the true spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’ The warm people of Tamil Nadu, the beautiful Tamil language, culture, and cuisine will surely make you feel at home.”
PM Modi projected a positive outlook for the Indian sports industry, estimating its size to touch nearly Rs 1 lakh crore in the coming years.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur were also present on the occasion.
The Khelo India Youth Games 2023, scheduled between January 19-31, will feature competitions held across four cities: Chennai, Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore. This marks a historic moment for South India and Tamil Nadu as the Khelo India Youth Games make their debut in the region.
Initially conceived as the Khelo India School Games in 2018, the Games have grown in magnitude and have been renamed the Khelo India Youth Games. This edition will witness the participation of over 5,500 athletes from all Indian states and Union Territories.
These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to fostering both sports and media infrastructure, contributing to the holistic development of the nation.