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PM Modi declares 12th South Asian Games open

In his address, he says the tournament will bring peace and prosperity in the region.

Guwahati: The rich and diverse culture of India's Northeast was on display in all its splendour as curtains went up on the 12th South Asian Games in a colourful opening ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of other dignitaries in attendance.

PM Modi declared the Games open at the Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium to mark the formal beginning of the 12-day event to be competed by more than 2600 athletes.

Eight countries — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, besides India — will be vying for the top honours in the Games to be co-hosted by Shillong.

"I declare the 12th South Asian Games open," Modi said amid cheers from a capacity crowd at the stadium.

Present on the occasion were governors of Assam and Meghalaya, chief ministers of the two states, besides Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and IOA president N Ramachandran among others.

Postponed several times due to various reasons, the much delayed but the biggest ever South Asian Games being held under the aegis of South Asian Olympics Council begins after a delay of four years.

The 'Gender Equal Games' will have 23 disciplines and 228 events, with all the sports having both men and women's sections for the first time, making this edition the biggest ever sporting spectacle in South Asia.

There will be 228 gold, 228 silver and 308 bronze medals on offer this time. The two North Eastern cities will play host to 3,333 athletes and officials.

India, who had topped the medal tally in all the editions so far, have the largest number of participants with 521 athletes (245 women).

Modi said the 12th South Asian Games being held here are not just a sporting platform but also a "springboard for bringing peace and prosperity in the region through business".

Declaring the Games open in a colourful ceremony here this evening, Modi said the Games would help form lasting bonds between the participating athletes.

"Let these Games become a springboard for bringing peace and prosperity in the region through business, interaction and sporting activities," Modi said in his address in front of a packed Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium.

Present on the occasion were governors of Assam and Meghalaya, chief ministers of the two states, besides Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and IOA president N Ramachandran. (Photo: PTI)Present on the occasion were governors of Assam and Meghalaya, chief ministers of the two states, besides Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and IOA president N Ramachandran. (Photo: PTI)

"The friendships you would form over these 12 days and the memories you take back will last you a lifetime...On the sports field, we can forget what separates us and we can truly connect with each other in the spirit of sportsmanship and adventure," he added.

Modi said the Games are an opportunity for the region to explore opportunities of growth.

"All South Asian countries are partners in our journey towards development...My vision for South Asia is same as my vision for India -- Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," he said.

"This meet celebrates togetherness of all South Asian Nations. This sports meet is perfect blend of three Ts - Teamwork, togetherness and talent."

Lauding the participating athletes, Modi said sports is essential for the overall growth of an individual.

"I feel privileged and honoured to be among sportspersons from our neighbourhood and brothers and sisters from SAARC countries. What moves me today is your electrifying presence and enthusiasm for this important international sports event," he said.

"Among us is the best talent from South Asia. This meet signifies togetherness of all South Asian nations. Sportsmen's spirit will help you not just on the field but also in other aspects of life. I always say jo khele, wo khile (those who play, shine)," he added.

Modi said he expects the Games to help improve the tourism and business opportunities in all participating countries.

"I am sure that as the Games proceed, this feeling of friendship, trust and understanding will convert into not just sporting opportunities but also business and tourism opportunities," he said.

( Source : PTI )
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