CM Pema Khandu Inaugurates 69th National School Games 2025 in Itanagar

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CM Pema Khandu Inaugurates 69th National School Games 2025 in Itanagar

1. Context:

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the 69th National School Games 2025 (Under-17 Boys & Girls – Boxing) at the Khelo India Indoor Stadium, Itanagar. This marks the first time in the 71-year history of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI) that Arunachal Pradesh is hosting the event.2. Key Highlights:

The event is a landmark occasion for Arunachal Pradesh, symbolizing its growing presence in India’s sports landscape.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Arunachalee athletes have excelled nationally in disciplines like Taekwondo, Karate, Wushu, Boxing, and Weightlifting.
Since its affiliation with SGFI in 2008–09, the state has made remarkable progress in school-level sports development.

3. Infrastructure and Policy Initiatives:

The state government has significantly invested in sports infrastructure, including:
- Khelo India Centres
- Multipurpose indoor halls
- National-level stadiums
- Specialized sports academies
Additionally, the government provides:
- Financial incentives for outstanding athletes
- Job reservations for sportspersons
- Technical and training support to nurture emerging talent

4. Vision and Significance:

Hosting the National School Games aligns with the state’s vision to make Arunachal Pradesh a hub of sporting excellence in the Northeast.
It showcases the integration of sports with youth empowerment and regional development.
The event contributes to India’s broader sporting success story under national initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India Movement.

STATIC INFORMATION

School Games Federation of India (SGFI):
- Established: 1954
- Objective: To organize national-level school sports and promote sports culture among school-going students.
- Affiliation: Recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India.
- Event: National School Games held annually for various age categories and disciplines.
Khelo India Programme:
- Launched: 2018
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
- Objective: To revive sports culture in India by building a strong framework for all sports played at the grassroots level.
- Key Components: Talent identification, sports infrastructure, financial assistance, and athlete development.

Updated – 28 October 2025 ; 8:46 PM | News Source – News On Air