Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated Delhi Games 2025 at Talkatora Stadium on Tuesday, calling it a landmark step towards building a vibrant sports culture in the capital.
The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries including Cabinet Minister Ashish Sood, MP Yogendra Chandolia, and Delhi Olympics Association President Kuldeep Vats.
Addressing athletes, coaches, and organisers, Chief Minister Gupta said, “Delhi Games 2025 aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a healthy and active India where sports play a central role in social progress. Sports not only build physical fitness but also instil discipline, teamwork and resilience,” CM Gupta stated that the sports budget has been doubled and the athlete reward fund quadrupled under the BJP Government compared to previous administrations. She accused former governments for neglecting sports and education, noting that athletes earlier had to struggle for basic facilities.
“Today, Delhi has a government that takes youth and their future seriously,” she declared, assuring players of world-class stadiums, high-tech training centres, modern equipment, skilled coaching, and financial support. She added that no athlete would be left behind due to lack of resources.
Chief Minister Gupta also addressed a previous trend where Delhi athletes registered under other states for better incentives. “Now, that will no longer be necessary. Delhi will recognise, reward, and respect its own athletes,” she affirmed.
The CM spoke about expanding sports infrastructure, with efforts underway to develop modern stadiums and training centres, including initiatives through Public-Private Partnerships in government schools.
Concluding her address, the Chief Minister urged the youth of Delhi to actively participate in sports and polish their talent.
“Sports not only keep you fit but also prepare you to face life’s challenges with resilience. Delhi Games 2025 offers a vital platform to showcase your skills and move toward success at national and international levels.” She extended her heartfelt congratulations to the organising team and stated that with over 12,000 athletes competing across 40 different sports disciplines, Delhi Games 2025 will take the capital to new heights in the field of sports.