Rajasthan will establish the Maharana Pratap Sports University in Jaipur. The project carries an estimated cost of Rs 101 crore. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced the plan. This initiative aims to boost sports infrastructure and athlete opportunities in the state.
The announcement followed a felicitation ceremony for Rajasthan athletes. These athletes earned medals at national and international events. Sharma recognized their discipline and dedication. He also acknowledged the support of coaches and families.
Athletes Honored for Achievements
Sharma addressed athletes at the Constitution Club of Rajasthan. He praised medal winners including Arundhati Choudhary, Yashveer Singh, Rahul Sharma, Mona Agarwal, and Sandhya Vishnoi. These athletes brought recognition to the state.
Arundhati Choudhary won gold in boxing at the Commonwealth Games. Yashveer Singh secured bronze in javelin throw. Rahul Sharma and Mona Agarwal won gold and bronze respectively at the Shooting Para World Cup. Sandhya Vishnoi claimed silver at the U-17 World Wrestling Championship.
Government Support for Athletes
The Rajasthan government has sanctioned Rs 52 crore. This financial assistance will benefit 3,540 athletes. Additionally, 186 sportspersons have been appointed to government service positions.
Rajasthan hosted the Khelo India University Games 2025. Approximately 7,000 athletes from 222 universities participated. The event took place across seven cities. Rajasthan athletes won 60 medals. This secured the state third position nationally.
New Sports Facilities and Initiatives
The state is expanding sports infrastructure. Support for athletes includes equipment, healthcare, and financial aid. A Sports Life Insurance Scheme has been introduced. The state spent Rs 18 crore on sports equipment.
Fifty Khelo India Centres are being established statewide. A Centre of Excellence for athletics, archery, and boxing will open at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Rajasthan athletes have represented the state at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.
Grassroots Development and Olympic Preparation
The government focuses on developing talent from the grassroots. The One District-One Sport initiative promotes a specific sport in each district. The Rajasthan Target Olympic Podium Scheme aids Olympic preparation.
The Khelo Rajasthan Youth Games will showcase traditional sports. They will identify and nurture young talent. The Rajasthan Youth Policy-2026 aims to increase opportunities in education, skills, sports, and leadership.
Athlete Recognition and Future Outlook
During the felicitation, Sharma presented citations and cash awards. Arundhati Choudhary received Rs 1 crore. Yashveer Singh was awarded Rs 30 lakh. Other medal winners also received awards.
Sharma expressed confidence in Rajasthan becoming a leading sporting state. Continued investment in infrastructure and athlete support is planned. This aims to strengthen the state's national and international sporting presence.
