GUWAHATI: Assam has secured its maiden qualification in volleyball for the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025, with the girls’ team leading the state’s entry into the national sporting event. This was announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday, April 7.
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“History created!” The chief minister posted on X to share the news. “HCM Dr. @himantabiswa extended his best wishes to the team.”
The development marks the first time a volleyball team from Assam will participate in the youth-level tournament under the Khelo India initiative. Sarma lauded the team’s efforts and congratulated Mrityunjoy Mahanta from Tezpur in particular, who has been selected for the national camp and training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Bengaluru.
Sarma also extended his best wishes to the entire contingent, highlighting the significance of the achievement in promoting sports development across the state.
"Their journey is a shining example of how grassroots talent is rising to national platforms. Here’s to determination, teamwork, and the spirit of the game!" Assam's Directorate of Sports & Youth Welfare also posted an update on X regarding the same.
The upcoming edition of the Khelo India Youth Games will be the seventh since the programme was launched to scout and develop grassroots sports talent. Around 10,000 participants, including athletes and volunteers, are expected to be part of the 2025 edition, representing all 36 states and Union Territories.
This year’s KIYG will feature 28 sports disciplines, covering Olympic and non-Olympic categories, along with several indigenous sports. Notably, esports has been included as a demonstration sport for the first time in the history of the games.