Kishan Reddy Urges Youth at EFLU Hyderabad to Prepare for 2036 Olympics

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy called upon youngsters to actively contribute to building a modern sports ecosystem and preparing India for the 2036 Olympic Games during an address at The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) in Hyderabad.

Speaking at the Khelo India Dialogue – “Khel Ki Baat PM Ke Saath”, which was also addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kishan Reddy emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for athletes across all levels. The event witnessed online participation from more than 1,500 educational institutions nationwide.

During his address, the Union minister stated that every child should have the opportunity to play, every talent should receive the chance to excel, and every athlete should be given the support required to compete with international peers. He noted that the recent performances of Indian athletes have been inspiring a new generation, adding that sports is now seen as a vital instrument for youth development, health, employment, national pride, and nation-building.

Highlighting recent landmark athletic achievements, Kishan Reddy pointed to Neeraj Chopra’s historic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the Indian men’s hockey team winning an Olympic bronze medal after a 41-year gap, and shooter Manu Bhaker securing two bronze medals at the Paris 2024 Games. He stated that these successes serve as proof that Olympic podium finishes are well within reach for Indian athletes.

The minister also highlighted a substantial increase in government investment in sports infrastructure, training facilities, and athlete support systems since 2014.

Emphasising that preparations for the 2036 Olympic Games must begin immediately in schools, colleges, sports academies, and Khelo India Centres, Kishan Reddy urged students to dream big, maintain discipline, and commit to rigorous training. He remarked that athletic talent can emerge from villages and small towns just as much as from metropolitan areas. He concluded by calling on the youth to help build a fit, healthy, developed, and confident sporting nation as part of the broader Viksit Bharat vision.