Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that the resolve of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ would be fulfilled only through healthy thinking. He underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy body and mind to attain this objective.

In the last nine years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, various sports activities have been organised across the country. Initiatives like Fit India, Khelo India, Sansad Khel Kood Pratiyogita and the establishment of Khelo India centres in every district are significant examples showcasing progress of the new India, he added.

Addressing the players who had come to participate in the women’s half-marathon organised at Dubagga, the chief minister said, “The women’s half -marathon is set to provide new inspiration to everyone. The healthier we are physically, the stronger we will be mentally.”

He mentioned that the half-marathon was an effort to convey the spirit of women’s empowerment, respect and security to the masses. “With the same spirit, the state government is advancing the Mission Shakti campaign in Uttar Pradesh,” he said.

Providing information about the marathon, Yogi stated that the winner would receive Rs 3 lakh, the runner-up Rs 2 lakh and the second runner-up would be awarded Rs 1 lakh.

He further mentioned that the increased sports activities in the country resulted in India winning 107 medals for the first time in the Asian Games. In the Para Asian Games, India secured 111 medals, showcasing the potential of the new India, he added.

Bharatiya Janata Party national president Jagat Prakash Nadda, state president Bhupendra Chaudhary, Union minister Kaushal Kishore, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Sports Minister Girish Chandra Yadav were present at the event.