Ratlam, December 21, 2024: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated the Silver Jubilee Ceremony of the Khel Chetna Mela in Ratlam, emphasizing the state’s growing prominence in sports. For the first time since independence, the state has allocated ₹586 crore to the sports budget, signaling a strong commitment to sports development. Madhya Pradesh is set to become the first state in the country with the highest number of 12 AstroTurf hockey fields.
Key Announcements
- AstroTurf for Hockey:
A state-of-the-art AstroTurf will be developed in Ratlam to boost hockey infrastructure. - Sari Cluster Development:
Inspired by Maheshwar and Chanderi, a Sari Cluster will be created in Ratlam to empower women and promote employment through sari production. - Cardiac Branch at Ratlam Medical College:
The Ratlam Medical College will have a dedicated cardiac branch for specialized heart treatments and surgeries. - Sports Infrastructure Development:
- A ₹15-crore Integrated Sports Complex is under construction in Ratlam.
- Facilities will include a synthetic track, indoor sports like judo, karate, wrestling, and kabaddi, along with a pavilion for 1,200 spectators and a gym.
- Land has also been allocated for sports facilities in Alot, Piploda, and Rawati regions.
Incorporating Sports into Education
Dr. Yadav announced that sports will now be part of the school curriculum. Sports teachers will also have opportunities to advance their careers as assistant professors, professors, and vice-chancellors.
The Role of Khel Chetna Mela
The Khel Chetna Mela, organized by the Chaitanya Kashyap Foundation for the past 25 years, has played a pivotal role in honing Ratlam’s sports talent. This year, over 10,000 athletes participated in the event. The Chief Minister lauded the foundation and Minister Chaitanya Kashyap for their continuous efforts in promoting sports.
Ratlam’s New Identity
Dr. Yadav said, “Ratlam, known for its saris, gold, and savory snacks (sev), is now establishing a new identity as a sports hub.”
Other Development Projects Highlighted
- Ratlam will benefit from irrigation projects linked to the Parvati-Chambal-Kalisindh River Linking Scheme, ensuring ample water supply for agriculture and industries.
- The state aims to double its budget to ₹7 lakh crore within the next five years, boosting overall development.
Honoring Athletes and Promoting Cleanliness
During the event, athletes excelling in various fields were honored. Additionally, a video song promoting cleanliness, developed under the leadership of Mayor Prahlad Patel, was launched.
Roadshow and Grand Welcome for CM Yadav
The citizens of Ratlam gave a warm welcome to CM Yadav with a grand roadshow from Banjali Helipad to Nehru Stadium. Enthusiastic supporters showered flowers along the route as the Chief Minister greeted the crowd.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
Authentic news.
