BHILAI,CG,INDIA: The first All India Weightlifting Cluster 2024-25 was officially inaugurated in Bhilai by Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma on Tuesday. The event, hosted at the grounds of the First Corps of Chhattisgarh Armed Forces, saw participation from 1,141 players representing 33 states. The competition will feature events in yoga, weightlifting, and powerlifting.

In his opening remarks, Home Minister Sharma welcomed the athletes to Chhattisgarh, emphasizing that the state was hosting such a national event for the first time. He highlighted the significance of Bhilai, often referred to as "Mini India" due to its diverse population, as a fitting venue. Sharma urged the players, particularly police personnel, to strive for gold medals in international competitions, reminding them that their success would bring pride to the entire nation.

The program was presided over by MP Vijay Baghel, with Durg city MLA Gajendra Yadav as a special guest. Baghel praised the dedication of police personnel, encouraging them to showcase their talents and bring honour to their states through their performances in the competition. Yadav echoed these sentiments, noting that this was the first time such an event was being organized in Chhattisgarh, and expressed hope for excellent performances from the participants.

Additional Director General of Police Vivekananda Sinha provided an overview of the event, celebrating Chhattisgarh’s debut in hosting an All India Weightlifting Cluster. He emphasized the state's commitment to promoting sports and improving athletic performance through such events. The competition will take place across three sports clubs in Bhilai Nagar.

Director General of Police Ashok Juneja welcomed the athletes, underscoring the importance of discipline and sportsmanship both on and off the field. He urged participants to embody the spirit of the competition in their daily lives as well. The event's formal inauguration included an impressive march-past, the lighting of the sports torch, and the players taking the oath of sportsmanship. The release of the competition's mascot and balloons added to the festive atmosphere, followed by a colourful cultural presentation.

The All India Weightlifting Cluster 2024-25 promises to be a landmark event for Chhattisgarh, blending athletic excellence with cultural pride.