Bhopal Emerges as the Water Sports Capital of India
- 557 Athletes, 22 Teams, and 360 Medals at Stake
- Competitions Include Kayaking, Canoeing, and Rowing
CM Inaugurates the 24th All India Police Water Sports Championship
Bhopal, February 17, 2025: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav remarked that while Prayagraj celebrates the grand Mahakumbh, Bhopal is hosting its own “mini-Kumbh” of water sports. He praised the police forces for their ability to balance their duties of ensuring public safety with achieving excellence in sports. Many officers have brought recognition to the nation through their sportsmanship. Hosting the All India Police Water Sports Championship at the historic Upper Lake, created by Raja Bhoj, is a proud moment for Madhya Pradesh and its capital city. This championship will encourage greater interest in water sports among the public.
Grand Ceremony at Upper Lake
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was welcomed at the Water Sports Center by a ceremonial police band. He met with managers from various state police and paramilitary teams. To mark the inauguration, colorful tri-colored balloons were released into the sky. Teams showcased their discipline through a march-past and rowing displays. A special souvenir was released, and participating teams took an oath of sportsmanship. Director General of Police Mr. Kailash Makwana presented a commemorative memento to the Chief Minister. The event was enlivened by patriotic tunes performed by the police band, with senior officials such as Additional Chief Secretary of Home Affairs Mr. J.N. Kansotiya in attendance.
Sports Foster Strength and Unity
The Chief Minister praised the energy and dedication of police and paramilitary forces, highlighting that their youthful spirit remains intact throughout their service. He underscored the importance of sports in developing physical fitness, mental clarity, and moral integrity. Dr. Yadav warmly welcomed the teams from across the nation and extended his best wishes for the competitions.
The Importance of Water in Human Life
Dr. Yadav emphasized the natural significance of water, noting its essential role in the creation of life. He explained that people are often drawn to water bodies for peace and relaxation. He also applauded Raja Bhoj’s remarkable vision in constructing the Upper Lake, which not only serves as a water conservation model but also a hub for water sports activities.
Competition Details
The championship, running from February 17 to 21, includes 27 events in kayaking, canoeing, and rowing for men and women. A total of 557 athletes, including 123 women, from 22 teams are participating. This is the sixth time the Madhya Pradesh Police has hosted the championship, following five previous successful editions.
Bhopal as India’s Water Sports Capital
Director General of Police Mr. Kailash Makwana highlighted the long history of sports, referencing ancient Indian texts. He praised the Upper Lake not just as a source of water and environmental sustainability, but also as a prime destination for water sports. Bhopal is now recognized as a leading hub for such activities, thanks to the state government’s support under the guidance of Chief Minister Dr. Yadav.
Participating Teams
The championship features teams from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal. Central units include contingents from the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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