Odisha gears up for first-ever Khelo India University Games

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is gearing up to host the first-ever Khelo India University Games at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar from 22 February to 1 March 2020.

The coveted event which aims to create a platform for youth to showcase their sporting prowess at the varsity level will witness the participation of 176 universities.

“We are delighted to host the inaugural edition of the Khelo India University Games in association with KIIT University. This is a great initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Sports Authority of India which will fortify the sports structure at a national level,” informed Sports Minister Tusharkanti Behera.

“Odisha is a sports-loving state and we have in the past hosted several marque international sporting events. I am confident this event will set yet another benchmark and the true spirit of sportsmanship will be showcased,” he added.

The Minister informed that the officials are working round-the-clock for smooth execution of the event and to ensure everyone has a memorable experience.

“With 176 Universities from across India registering to participate in the first edition of Khelo India University Games, we are confident this will create a new revolution in sports at the varsity level where youth U-25 will get a great platform to showcase their talent in 17 different disciplines.

The vision behind hosting this multi-discipline sporting extravaganza is to create robust university games and identify talent who can be trained for the Olympics. Across the world, university games have formed the basis for identification and nurturing of Olympic talent,” expressed Sandip Pradhan, Director General, Sports Authority of India.

Khelo India University Games will witness over 5000 athletes vie for top honours in 17 different disciplines.