Raipur, (VW) Deputy Chief Minister and Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Arun Sao attended the Khelo India Samvad programme at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Raipur, on Thursday, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Mansukh Mandaviya addressed the nationwide event virtually.

Organised as part of the National Sports Day celebrations to mark the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, the programme connected over eight lakh youths across 1,600 locations nationwide. International cricketer Tilak Varma and youth icon Priyanka Bissa joined the session in Raipur to interact with participants.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that sports should not be viewed merely through the prism of medals and victories, calling sports and youth power vital components of a developed India (Viksit Bharat). He added that sports participation builds individual character, strengthens families, and brings pride to the nation.

PM Modi highlighted that the Union government is establishing a modern sports ecosystem—spanning sports universities to advanced training centres—to nurture talent from the grassroots level to international competitions. He noted that India is actively collaborating with international partners in coaching, sports science, and expertise.

Describing Khelo India Samvad as an interactive platform, the Prime Minister urged young citizens to share ideas on sports governance, talent development, and national growth to help shape future policies.

Addressing the gathering at NIT Raipur, Deputy CM Arun Sao urged young people to maintain perseverance and refrain from substance abuse, stating that a drug-free youth is vital for the nation’s progress. He advised youth to view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than falling into despair or addiction.

Cricketer Tilak Varma shared that sports instill mental strength, pressure management, and teamwork, while promoting awareness of fitness and nutrition. He cited sporting icons like Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Neeraj Chopra as enduring inspirations for Indian youth.

Youth icon Priyanka Bissa urged the participants to take direct ownership of their ideas, advocating for greater youth leadership in governance and community initiatives.

During the interactive Yuva Samvad segment, NIT students, local athletes, and participants offered inputs on expanding sports infrastructure, scouting talent for the 2036 Olympics, curbing drug addiction, and driving youth-led governance. The event concluded with all attendees taking a formal pledge to stay away from substance abuse.

Prominent officials present at the venue included NIT Director Prof NV Ramana Rao, Sports and Youth Welfare Department Secretary Yashwant Kumar, Director Akanksha Shiksha Khalkho, and My Bharat State Director Arpit Tiwari.