The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare held a dialogue session at Mata Sundri College for Women in Delhi as part of the Khelo India initiative. Central Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan participated in the event, which brought together female students to discuss sports, health, and national development. The session connected to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India and encouraged young people to contribute to this goal.
What was discussed
The event, organised with support from My Bharat, created an open platform for college students to share ideas directly with the minister. Chouhan emphasised that sports are as important as academics because they build discipline, confidence, resilience, and personality. He stressed the need to listen to young people’s suggestions and incorporate them into policy decisions.
Students raised several key concerns and proposals:
- Mental health and sports psychology: Students suggested regular psychology modules at Khelo India centres and government sports academies covering stress management, focus, motivation, and emotional coaching
- Rural and remote area access: Better sports infrastructure, affordable equipment, trained coaches, awareness campaigns, and career guidance in distant regions
- Financial barriers: Creating programmes with grants and equipment rental schemes so economically weaker students can pursue sports of their choice
- Family and teacher awareness: Conducting workshops to make parents and teachers more supportive of young sporting talent
The minister also administered an oath to students committing to a drug-free India, highlighting that healthy youth are the nation’s true strength.
What this means for you
If you are a student interested in sports but face financial constraints or lack access to proper coaching and facilities, the government is now paying attention to your specific barriers. The suggestions raised at this dialogue will be forwarded to relevant departments, with particular focus on mental health support, nutrition, and rural sports development. This opens a pathway for policy changes that could make sports more accessible across different regions and income groups.