Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday officially inaugurated the 87th Inter-State Junior and Youth National Table Tennis Championship at the Multipurpose Sports Hall located at Parade Ground, Dehradun. In a gesture that thrilled the participants, the Chief Minister also played a few rounds of table tennis to encourage and boost the morale of the young players.
A Historic Moment for Uttarakhand
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stated that it is a matter of immense pride for Uttarakhand to host this prestigious national-level competition for the first time. He expressed his gratitude to the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) for granting the state this opportunity.
Sports as a Foundation for Character Building
Highlighting the importance of sports in life, CM Dhami said, “Sports are not just a medium of competition but a strong foundation for character building. Through sports, life values such as discipline, patience, teamwork, and dedication to goals are developed, which inspire the youth to achieve excellence in every field of life.”
He called upon the young athletes, noting that they represent not only their respective states but also the bright future of India. He emphasized that their hard work, discipline, and determination would play a vital role in taking the nation to new heights.
The Vision of ‘Khelo India’ and ‘Fit India’
The Chief Minister described table tennis as a sport that requires a perfect blend of speed, balance, technique, and mental toughness. He remarked that the game teaches players quick decision-making, strategic thinking, and the confidence to face challenges.
He further credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership for giving a new direction to the sports culture in the country. “Through initiatives like ‘Khelo India’ and the ‘Fit India Movement,’ India has made remarkable progress in the field of sports and is today creating a distinct identity on global platforms,” the CM added.
The event marks a significant milestone in Uttarakhand’s sports history, bringing together the best junior and youth talent from across the country to the capital city.
