HOST Madhya Pradesh team bagged the overall championship of the 69th National School Games, on Sunday. The national-level sports event was held from December 23 to 28 with the competitions in Basketball (Under-14 Boys) and Kho-Kho (Under-19 Boys and Girls). The closing ceremony was held in the presence special guest MLA Dr Abhilash Pandey. Distinguished guests included Municipal Corporation President Rikunj Vijay, School Games Federation of India observers DK Singh and Sumit Bhatia, along with senior education and sports officials. Special guest MLA Dr Abhilash Pandey remarked that India is progressing steadily towards becoming a developed nation and sportspersons play a vital role in this journey.

 

He encouraged athletes to focus not only on medals but also on imbibing the true spirit of sportsmanship, perseverance and determination. He highlighted how such national events reflect unity in diversity, offering opportunities to understand different cultures, languages and traditions experiences that remain valuable throughout life.

 

In Basketball (Under-14 Boys): Gold – Madhya Pradesh (defeated Delhi in the final), Silver – Delhi and Bronze – Rajasthan. In Kho-Kho (Under-19 Girls): Gold – Madhya Pradesh (defeated Maharashtra), Silver – Maharashtra and Bronze – Delhi. In Kho-Kho (Under-19 Boys): Gold – Maharashtra (defeated Madhya Pradesh), Silver – Madhya Pradesh and Bronze – Delhi. The championship witnessed participation from 34 states and units, with a total of 1,216 players and officials. Competitions were hosted at DPS School, Neemkheda. Comprehensive arrangements were made, including a central control room, venue management, transportation, accommodation, and meals.

 

Dedicated committees and teams were formed with clearly defined responsibilities to ensure smooth conduct of the event. The event was attended by Joint Director of Public Education, Jabalpur Division Arun Kumar Ingle, District Education Officer Ghanshyam Soni, Divisional Sports Officers Asha Sisodia and Madhumita Hajra, along with general managers, officers, staff members, coaches and volunteers.