Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the second phase of Sansad Khel Mahakumbh 2022-23 organised at Shaheed Satyawan Singh Stadium via video conferencing.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also present on this occasion.
Recalling the time when sports was considered just an extracurricular activity with little importance, the prime minister said that this led to many talented sportspersons not achieving their potential.
"But today's nation has a different perspective towards it, and more children and young people are considering sports as a career," he added.
The prime minister said that the effects of change could be seen through the achievements of the country in the field of sports. He said sports were getting due prestige in society.
Modi said that about 200 MPs had organised such khel mahakumbh in their constituencies. "By organising such events, the MPs are shaping the future of the new generation," the prime minister said, and added, "
Through these games, performing athletes are being picked up for further training under the Sports Authority of India."
Expressing delight over witnessing the kho-kho game played by the girls during the event, the prime minister said, "The daughters of the land played the game with great skill, dexterity and team spirit. I congratulate all the daughters. Our daughters are participating in the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh. I have faith that the daughters of Basti, Purvanchal and Uttar Pradesh will continue to show their strength in national and international competitions."