NIDJAM 2024: Gujarat Welcomes Players for National Inter District Junior Athletics Meet, Starts February 16th

NIDJAM 2024: Gujarat is gearing up to host NIDJAM 2024, commencing on February 16th and concluding on February 18th. NIDJAM, which stands for National Inter District Junior Athletics Meet, is a grassroots talent search program held annually.

The 19th edition of NIDJAM will take place in Gujarat, organized by the Athletics Federation of India in collaboration with the Sports Authority of Gujarat, Gujarat University, and the Rural Electrification Corporation of India. The event will feature 5,558 athletes from 616 districts across 31 states and union territories, representing six sports disciplines.

The inauguration of NIDJAM will take place on February 15th

The inauguration of NIDJAM 2024 will be led by Gujarat’s Chief Minister, Bhupendrabhai Patel, and Sports Minister Harsh bhai Sanghvi on February 15th at Gujarat University. Since its inception in 2003, NIDJAM has witnessed over 50,000 athletes participating over the last two decades, with the previous edition held in Patna, Bihar.

Sports Minister Harsh Sanghvi unveiled the mascot for NIDJAM 2024

During a press conference on February 13th, Sports Minister Harsh Sanghvi unveiled the mascot for NIDJAM 2024, underscoring Gujarat's growing stature in the realm of sports. The event serves as a pivotal platform for the country's youth, with Gujarat's successful hosting of the National Games last year laying the groundwork for NIDJAM and highlighting the state's role in fostering sports development.

Sports Authority of Gujarat Officials Detail NIDJAM 2024 Preparations

Following the press conference, key officials from the Sports Authority of Gujarat shared insights into the preparations for NIDJAM 2024.

Shri I.R. Vala, Secretary of the Sports Authority of Gujarat, expressed, "Players hailing from rural and remote areas are actively participating in this event, competing in the U-14 and U-16 categories." He further extended his best wishes to the players and assured them that they would be provided with the necessary facilities for a comfortable stay in Gujarat.

Mr. R.S. Ninama, IAS, Director General of the Sports Authority of Gujarat, highlighted the excellent lodging and food arrangements made at Gujarat University campus. He affirmed their commitment to providing all necessary facilities to the participating players, aiming to leave them with a positive impression of their experience in Gujarat.

Prof. Dr. Arjunsinh Rana, Vice Chancellor of Swarnim Gujarat Sports University, OSD of the Sports Authority of Gujarat, said that along with the Sports Authority of Gujarat, Athletics Federation of India, Gujarat University, and Rural Electrification Corporation, they are all ready to provide for the players participating in NIDJAM 2024. He proudly mentioned that Neeraj Chopra, who won a gold medal in the Olympics played in NIDJAM and they are waiting for more such winners.

Athletes have been warmly welcomed with cultural performances

Athletes from all corners of India are converging in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where they have been warmly welcomed with cultural performances and hospitality. The players expressed their appreciation for the warm reception and admired Gujarat's rich culture.

Also read: NIDJAM 2024: ‘The Grand Sports Spectacle’ in Ahmedabad from February 16 to 18 

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