Khelo India Youth Games 2021: Haryana win title

NEW DELHI: The curtains came down on a successful Khelo India Youth Games 2021 at the Indradhanush Stadium in Haryana on Monday. Hosts Haryana topped the table with a total of 137 medals (52 gold) followed by Maharashtra (125 medals; 45 gold) and Karnataka (67 medals; 22 gold).

Present at the closing ceremony were Bandaru Dattatreya, Governor of Haryana, Manohar Lal , Chief Minister of Haryana, Anurag Singh Thakur, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Nisith Pramanik, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports and other prominent dignitaries from Haryana, including State Sports Minister Sandeep Singh.

There was also a special message from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion: "Over the years, talented sportspersons of the country have made themselves, their families and the entire country proud with their performances in various sports on different platforms. The talent and performance of all these players is a reflection of the ever-increasing potential of 21st century India on the world stage.Today the hopes and aspirations of the young players of the country are forming the basis of decisions and policies. Promotion of sports in new education policy emphasises on building modern sports infrastructure. The synergy of modern technology is creating a rich sports culture in India today. From the identification, selection and training of talent in the field of sports to the sporting needs of the players, the government is with the country's talented youth at every step."

Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, on the occasion, also gave out his congratulations to all who participated. "There have been 12 new national records and I put forward my hearty congratulations to all of the athletes," mentioned Thakur.

Karnataka swimmer Aneesh Gowda finished as the highest medalist from the games, finishing with a total of 6 gold medals. Maharashtra duo Apeksha Fernandes (Swimming) and Sanyukta Kale (Rhythmic Gymnastics) finished with 5 gold medals each.

Hoping to see the Khelo India events take place again in a few months' time, Thakur added, "We really want the Khelo India Youth Games and the University Games to take place again between November and March so that the athletes get a chance again to showcase their talent."

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