New Delhi, August 27: At the ‘Khelo India Dialogue – Sports Talk with PM Modi’ event held at Mata Sundari College for Women in Delhi, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan engaged in an open dialogue with students. He emphasized the importance of valuing youth suggestions, focusing on mental health and nutrition services in sports, and promoting a drug-free India by taking an oath against substance abuse.
During this nationwide event, which was graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister Chouhan welcomed the students and stressed the need for increased participation of the youth in the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Developed India.’ The dialogue was closely tied to the Prime Minister’s message and was designed to give every student the opportunity to voice their opinions.
In his address, Minister Chouhan highlighted that sports are a crucial aspect of holistic development, equating their importance to education. He noted that sports help foster discipline, self-confidence, resilience, and personality development. He assured that the government would consider necessary amendments to policies based on the suggestions from the youth.
Students presented numerous suggestions, including the need for regular ‘psychology-weighted’ modules in Khelo India centers and government sports academies. These modules would cover stress management, mindfulness, motivation, performance pressure, coping with failure, and emotional coaching. They also called for improved sports infrastructure in rural and remote areas, affordable equipment, trained coaches, awareness campaigns, career guidance, and equal opportunities.
Addressing economic and resource barriers, students proposed programs that would enable economically disadvantaged students to learn their preferred sports through grants, rental equipment, and local training centers. They also suggested workshops to sensitize parents and teachers, thereby encouraging young sports talents.
Minister Chouhan listened attentively to all the suggestions and commended the students for their input. He assured that practical suggestions would be communicated to the relevant departments for further action, with a special emphasis on mental health, nutrition, and the development of rural sports.
During the event, Minister Chouhan also administered an oath to the students for a drug-free India, stating that a healthy youth is the true strength of the nation. He added that preparations for national and international competitions are ongoing, and providing better opportunities for athletes is a government priority.
The participating students expressed their happiness at having the opportunity to speak directly with the Union Minister and share their problems and suggestions. Many students felt hopeful that such dialogues would ensure their voices reach policymakers, leading to tangible changes.
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