Pics: Adithya Aithal/Abhijith Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jan 23: “Participation in sports increases the sense of teamwork, cooperation, and develops qualities like unity, discipline, and equality,” said Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot, speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the Karnataka State Games 2025, held at Mahatma Gandhi Stadium, Ajjarkad, Udupi.
The event was jointly organised by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, Karnataka Olympic Association, and the district administrations of Mangaluru and Udupi.
Udupi
Mangaluru
Governor Gehlot highlighted that more than 4,000 athletes participated in the event. He emphasised the vital role sports play in our lives, promoting both mental and physical well-being. "Sports keep our bodies fit and healthy while fostering teamwork and cooperation. Karnataka actively supports athletes through various schemes, stressing the importance of regular practice to achieve perfection," he stated.
He also urged for the organisation of district-level sports events every six months to keep athletes motivated and consistent in their practice. “The more you play, the stronger you become mentally and physically. I am a testament to that,” he added.
Home minister Dr G Parameshwara, who also participated in the event, remarked, “As an athlete, I am delighted to be part of this event. Karnataka stands out as the only state in the country with a dedicated building for the Olympic Association and a sports museum. Mangaluru and Udupi have always been strong supporters of sports.”
He further emphasised that sports are an area free from caste and creed, adding, “If more youth engage in sports, social divisions will fade away. Sports can play a vital role in steering them toward a positive path, away from illegal activities. Efforts by schools and police are underway to raise awareness. The chief minister has allocated Rs 3 crores each for stadiums in Udupi and Mangaluru. I urge that the Karnataka State Games 2026 be hosted in Tumakuru.”
Dr K Govindaraj, chief minister's political secretary, MLA, and president of the Karnataka Olympic Association, praised the Governor's support for sports initiatives. “Sports transcend colour, caste, and political affiliations—there is only one caste here, and that is the caste of sports,” he said.
He noted that events like these bring new talents to the forefront, providing them with opportunities to shine. “Karnataka ranks second in the country for offering job opportunities to athletes, which reflects our commitment to fostering sports. I strongly urge making sports mandatory for students in grades 11 and 12, as it can significantly contribute to their overall development,” he added.
In his presidential address, Udupi MLA Yashpal A Suvarna called for greater support for sports in the region. “Udupi has earned recognition in education and banking, and sports should be no exception. Sports are an integral part of our lives, and our dreams can only be realized when we embrace them,” he said. He also highlighted the need for a full-fledged cricket stadium in Udupi, urging the authorities to establish one to encourage sports enthusiasts.
The ceremony featured a jumble march past, traditional sports events, cultural performances, and the distribution of prizes.
Dr K Vidya Kumari, deputy commissioner of Udupi district, welcomed the gathering, and Dr Jeethendra Shetty, JD, DyES and nodal officer of Karnataka Kreedakoota, delivered the vote of thanks.
The event was attended by a number of prominent dignitaries, including MPs, ministers, MLAs, MLCs, and other notable figures from the sports and educational sectors.