Srinagar: The Union Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports on Thursday announced that the first-ever “Khelo India Water Sports Festival” will be held at Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake from August 21 to 23, this year.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said the event is part of the government’s effort to broaden the sports ecosystem under the ‘Khelo India’ initiative and provide more opportunities to athletes nationwide.
He said the three-day water sports festival will feature five events—‘Kayaking and canoeing, rowing, water skiing, shikara race and dragon boat race.’ He added more than 400 athletes from 36 states and union territories are expected to participate.
“Nominations will be made by national sports federations based on their national championships or as decided by the Games Technical Conduct Committee.”
Similarly, speaking about the initiative, Dr. Mandaviya said, the Khelo India Water Sports Festival is another step towards making sports more inclusive and accessible in every part of the country.
He said events like these help athletes grow and represent the country on international platforms, adding that India already holds a strong position in water sports at the Asian level and events like these will help in scouting and grooming fresh talent. “With modern infrastructure and qualified coaches available, we want more young athletes to take up water sports,” he said.—(KNO)
