PM talks of 'Sreshth Bharat' as National Games kick off

A modest but colourful opening ceremony showcasing Uttarakhand's religious heritage and bio-diversity kicked off the 38th National Games here on Tuesday with guest of honour Prime Minister Narendra Modi using the opportunity to reiterate his government's ambitious plan of hosting the 2036 Olympics.

- Agencies

DEHRADUN: A modest but colourful opening ceremony showcasing Uttarakhand's religious heritage and bio-diversity kicked off the 38th National Games here on Tuesday with guest of honour Prime Minister Narendra Modi using the opportunity to reiterate his government's ambitious plan of hosting the 2036 Olympics.

Around 10,000 athletes are gearing up to compete for podium finishes across 32 disciplines in the Games that will run till February 14. Events will be held across seven cities of the hill state with Dehradun being the main venue.

Around 450 gold medals, and a similar number of silver and bronze medals are at stake.

Modi declared the Games open after the teams marched in and he was presented the Games torch at the ceremony.

"It is our endeavour to enhance your capabilities and we are focused on supporting you. We consider sports an essential aspect in development of country," Modi told the gathered athletes at the ceremony.