Chandigarh: Haryana Minister of State for Sports, Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam said India’s fourth-place finish at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 is a matter of great pride and honour for the entire nation. He said Indian athletes have earned global recognition for the country through their talent, discipline and relentless hard work, and expressed confidence that the younger generation would draw inspiration from their achievements to attain greater success on the international stage.
The Minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 1st Sant Guru Ravidas North Zone Girls Volleyball Championship in Panchkula as the Chief Guest on Wednesday. Women’s volleyball teams from various northern states participated in the championship. The event was attended by players, coaches, sports officials and a large number of sports enthusiasts.
Addressing the participants, Gaurav Gautam said sports are not merely about winning or losing but serve as the greatest school of discipline, self-confidence, perseverance, leadership and teamwork. He said sports equip individuals to face life’s challenges with determination while fostering positive values and energy in society. He urged every athlete to set clear goals and pursue them with dedication, adding that there is no shortcut to success.
The Minister said Haryana has long established itself as the country’s sporting powerhouse, with its athletes consistently bringing laurels to India at the Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and other international competitions. He said these achievements reflect not only the hard work of the athletes but also the State’s strong sporting culture.
Gaurav Gautam said that under the leadership of Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini, the Haryana Government is giving the highest priority to the welfare of sportspersons. He said the State is strengthening sports infrastructure by developing modern facilities, expanding stadiums, providing world-class training and ensuring the availability of advanced sports equipment. The Government’s objective, he added, is to ensure that no talented athlete is deprived of opportunities due to a lack of resources.
Highlighting the achievements of women athletes, the Minister said daughters of Haryana are setting new benchmarks in sports, just as they are excelling in every other field. He said their outstanding performances at the international level have brought immense pride to both the State and the nation. Expressing confidence in the participants of the championship, he said they have the potential to represent India and win medals for the country in the future.
Former Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Gian Chand Gupta, former Kalka MLA, Latika Sharma, and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
