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Puri highlighted India’s economic growth, noting that the country has progressed from a two-trillion-dollar economy to a four-trillion-dollar economy. He identified the nation’s youth as the primary beneficiaries of the ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision.

Describing the transformation as “truly remarkable,” Puri said, “As the Prime Minister noted, the number of medals won is just one aspect; the country itself is transforming.” He underlined the extent of sports initiatives, stating the program currently reaches approximately 1,600 locations nationwide with significant participation, including from sports personalities.

“We have moved from a two-trillion-dollar economy to a four-trillion-dollar. Consider who the true beneficiaries of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ will be: the children sitting right here. This is a very well-organized programme, reaching some 1,600 locations across the country with such engagement,” he added.

Puri further observed that enhanced facilities, increased budget allocations, and government support are offering better opportunities for aspiring athletes. “I believe the participation—including that of sports figures—is massive. Look at the facilities available today for anyone wishing to pursue sports; the public sector and the government are all allocating budgets. I am fully confident that in the times ahead, the efforts being invested will transform India—not just into a ‘Viksit Bharat’, but by revolutionizing the entire ecosystem in every respect,” he said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed athletes during the ‘Khelo India Dialogue’ via video conference, reiterating his government’s commitment to developing a “modern, 21st-century” sporting ecosystem across the country. He outlined efforts in talent identification and support, highlighting cooperation with other nations to improve sports science, training, and coaching.

PM Modi said, “Our government is fully committed to creating a modern, 21st-century sports ecosystem in India. Today, a system is being built across the country—ranging from sports universities to modern training centers—that provides support at every stage, from identifying talent to propelling it onto the global stage. We are also enhancing cooperation with other nations to share expertise in sports science, training, and coaching.”

He described the ‘Khelo India Samvad’ as a significant platform for dialogue, stating, “This event itself is a testament to the government’s seriousness regarding sports. The ‘Khelo India Samvad’ is not merely a program for discussing sports; it is a platform for dialogue where every single idea can give a new direction to the nation’s vision for sports. Furthermore, this interaction with the youth serves as a powerful medium to align your ideas and aspirations with the dreams of the nation.”