The Indian sports scene has been abuzz with several key developments over the last 24 hours, highlighting the nation's commitment to promoting sports across various levels and celebrating remarkable individual achievements.
Khelo India University Games Rajasthan 2025 Launched
In a grand ceremony held at the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur on Wednesday, November 12, the official logo, mascots, torch, jerseys, and anthem for the Khelo India University Games Rajasthan 2025 (KIUG Rajasthan 2025) were unveiled. This marks the first time Rajasthan will host the flagship event of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The Games, scheduled from November 24 to December 5, will take place across seven cities in Rajasthan: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Ajmer, Bharatpur, and Bikaner. Over 7,000 athletes from nearly 200 universities are expected to compete in 24 disciplines, with new additions this year including canoeing, kayaking, cycling, and beach volleyball. The mascots, 'Khamma' and 'Ghani,' inspired by the state animal, the camel, embody Rajasthan's hospitality.
Record Indian Contingent for Deaflympics 2025
India is sending its largest-ever contingent of 111 members to the Deaflympics, set to commence in Tokyo from November 15 to 26. Jerlin Jayaratchagan, a multiple gold medalist at the Deaflympics, will serve as India's flagbearer. The Indian contingent received a warm send-off from Secretary Sports, Government of India, Hari Ranjan Rao, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Wednesday, November 12. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, expressed pride in India's progress in global events for special athletes and emphasized the importance of inclusivity and healthy outreach through sports. India will participate in 11 disciplines, including athletics, badminton, golf, judo, karate, shooting, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, wrestling, and tennis.
Indian Football Crisis Reaches Sports Minister's Doorstep
A significant crisis in Indian football has escalated, with the deadlock between the national federation (AIFF) and Indian Super League (ISL) clubs leading to a request for a meeting with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Following a failed meeting on Wednesday, November 12, I-League clubs, which had skipped the prior discussion due to short notice, are also expected to meet the minister on Thursday, November 13, to find a resolution. The ongoing dispute has brought the domestic football circuit to a halt, impacting the livelihoods of hundreds of footballers and support staff.
Para-Archer Sheetal Devi Makes History
In an inspiring feat, armless para-archer Sheetal Devi has made history by becoming the first Indian para-archer to be selected for an able-bodied junior team. She achieved this remarkable milestone by finishing third at the national selection trials in Haryana for the upcoming Asia Cup in Jeddah, competing alongside 60 able-bodied archers. Sheetal, who learned archery using her feet, demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, scoring 703 points in the qualification round. Her achievement has garnered widespread admiration and highlights a significant step towards inclusivity in Indian sports.