Bangalore , December 21 (Karnataka News): Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, called upon sportspersons to utilize government support and enhance Karnataka’s reputation at the global level through excellence in sports.
He was addressing the gathering at the *Karnataka Olympic Association Awards–2025* distribution ceremony, organized by the Karnataka Olympic Association at Lok Bhavan. The Governor said that both the Government of India and the Government of Karnataka are playing a proactive role in strengthening sports activities and ensuring the overall upliftment of sportspersons.
“The State Government has framed strong policies to promote sports by identifying talent in both rural and urban areas and providing appropriate platforms. The Karnataka State Sports Authority and the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports are offering international-standard modern sports facilities to athletes,” the Governor stated.
He further noted that the government is creating opportunities for young athletes through scholarships, training programmes and incentive schemes. “Athletes who win medals at national and international levels are provided incentives, reservations in government jobs and due recognition. As a result, Karnataka is steadily progressing by linking sports with health, discipline and national pride,” he said.
Emphasizing grassroots development, the Governor said that identifying and nurturing talent at the grassroots level is essential to improve the country’s representation in sports. He stressed the need to encourage regular sports activities and compulsory physical education in schools and colleges, strengthen sports infrastructure in rural areas, ensure availability of trained coaches and expand opportunities for participation in national and international competitions. “Providing social recognition and job security will encourage the younger generation to pursue sports as a profession,” he added.
Highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to Indian sports, the Governor said the state has produced outstanding athletes in cricket, badminton, athletics, hockey, kabaddi and swimming. “Cities like Bengaluru have international-level sports academies, stadiums and training centres. The remarkable performances of Karnataka’s athletes in the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and other global competitions prove that Karnataka is truly a land of talent,” he said, urging sportspersons to make full use of available facilities to enhance the state’s global standing.
Appealing to parents and teachers, the Governor said their encouragement is vital for children to participate in sports. “Sports contribute to physical, mental and intellectual development and help build responsible citizens,” he said.
Congratulating the award recipients, Thaawarchand Gehlot said, “These awards are not only recognition of achievements but also a tribute to discipline, dedication, hard work and sportsmanship. Your success will inspire youth to pursue careers in sports.” He praised the Karnataka Olympic Association for promoting Olympic values, strengthening sports culture and nurturing athletes through training, competitions and talent identification programmes.
He described the Karnataka Olympic Association Awards as a proud moment for the state’s sports community, noting that the awards honour athletes, coaches, administrators and institutions contributing to sports development. “This initiative reinforces discipline, dedication and excellence, and marks an important step towards establishing Karnataka as a strong sporting state,” he said.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Home Minister G. Parameshwar, MLC and Karnataka Olympic Association President Dr. K. Govindaraj, Principal Secretary Naveen Raj Singh, Commissioner R. Chethan and other dignitaries were present at the event.
