HYDERABAD: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy unveiled the logo and mascot for the eighth edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) on Sunday, November 15 which is scheduled to be held in Telangana from December 11 to 22.
The sporting event will be organised across six cities- Hyderabad, Khammam, Karimnagar, Hanumakonda, Mahabubnagar and Nizamabad with around 8,000 athletes and participants expected to take part.
The Games will feature 29 disciplines, including 27 competitive sports and two demonstration events which are Sailing and Karra Samu.
Highlighting the Centre's efforts to promote sporting culture among the youth, Mandaviya said the government is committed in expanding the opportunities for young athletes under the Khelo India initiative.
According to the media report, Mandaviya said the Union govenment, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership is working towards to strengthen India's sporting ecosystem by organising various national-level competitions, including the Khelo India Youth Games, Beach Games, Winter Games and Tribal Games, to encourage greater participation of young people in sports.
The 27 competitive sports will include Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Boxing, Cycling, Fencing, Football, Gatka, Gymnastics, Hockey, Judo, Kabaddi, Kalaripayattu, Kho-Kho, Mallakhamb, Rowing, Shooting, Swimming, Softball, Table Tennis, Tennis, Thang-Ta, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Wrestling and Yogasana.
Softball will make its debut at this edition of the Games, while Sailing and Karra Samu will feature as demonstration events.
Logo: The logo brings together Telangana’s rich cultural heritage and sporting spirit.
It features iconic landmarks, traditional symbols and sporting silhouettes, reflecting the State’s identity while highlighting unity, energy and the enthusiasm of young athletes.
Mascot – Neelamani: Neelamani represents the vibrancy, courage and agility of young sportspersons.
The mascot embodies the determination, confidence and competitive spirit of athletes, while reflecting the pride and enthusiasm associated with the Games.
The event is expected to provide a platform for young sporting talent from across the country to showcase their abilities and compete in various disciplines.
(With inputs from media reports)