Haryana has emerged the biggest sporting power in country, says Tourism Minister

Minister for Cooperatives, Prisons, Elections and Tourism Arvind Sharma has said Haryana has emerged as the biggest sporting power in the country as the BJP government, led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, has provided a new direction to talented sportspersons by creating a favourable environment for them.

He was addressing the gathering during the inauguration of a lawn tennis tournament.

Under the joint aegis of the Department of Sports, Government of Haryana, and the Sonepat district administration, the competition was inaugurated on Saturday at Sports University of Haryana, Rai, as part of the state-level Khel Mahakumbh-2025 (Phase-I).

Ashok Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Sports University of Haryana, and Deputy Commissioner Sushil Sarwan were among those present at the event.

The minister played a game with the vice-chancellor during the inaugural session of the event, and interacted with the players participating from across the state.

Addressing the gathering, Sharma said Haryana had long been a land conducive to fostering

sporting excellence.

This event was not merely a competition, but a nation-building endeavour to instil discipline, unity, and leadership among players through sports, he added.

“I urge all participating athletes to compete with true sportsmanship and bring glory to the state,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the university would make a major contribution to enhancing the role of Haryana in future, and in making Haryana win 36 Olympics medals by the year 2036.

The minister said, today, the state’s sports policies were being seen as ideal across the country as these provided maximum cash rewards and facilities to players.

The vice-chancellor said it was a matter of great pride for the university to host such a significant event.

The competition would ignite and self-confidence in youngsters, he added.

“Our university aims to nurture not just academic growth but also holistic development in athletes — which is true education. We will continue to support such initiatives in the future as well,” the vice-chancellor said.

Following the inaugural ceremony, lawn tennis matches began with spirited performances from participants.

The event will continue until August 4, culminating in a prize distribution ceremony, where winners will be honoured with awards and certificates.