GUWAHATI: The upcoming Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2023, slated to be held in Guwahati will witness a notable absence of state universities as no universities from Assam have qualified to participate in the sporting event. This revelation comes despite Assam being designated as the host state for the prestigious games, which are set to take place across all eight northeastern states.
The absence of Assam's contingent has sparked questions and discussions among stakeholders, shedding light on the state's apparent lack of representation in the sporting arena. While addressing the media, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister of Assam, Nandita Gorlosa, expressed confidence in the organising capabilities of the state, stating, "We are all set to organise the university games on a grand level. And hoping that everything goes smoothly."
However, the absence of Assam's participation has raised concerns regarding the state's commitment to sports and athletic development. Despite boasting ample facilities, universities in Assam have displayed limited interest in sports, highlighting a broader neglect of sporting activities within educational institutions.
According to the selection procedure conducted by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), no universities from Assam met the criteria to qualify for the games.
This development underscores the need for greater emphasis on sports and athletic programs within the state's educational institutions.
While speaking to GPlus, a senior official from Gauhati University mentioned, "Those universities which have earlier won on the AIU level, are qualified. Our university has a record in other disciplines which are not included under KIUG. We request the authority to grant us a certain amount in order to train and send the athletes to AIU level. In the long run, this will help us to qualify for such games."
The Khelo India University Games 2023, scheduled from February 17-29, will feature 16 games across seven venues in Guwahati.
A total of 2,954 participants representing 213 universities from various parts of the country are set to participate in the mega sporting event worth ₹65 crore.
Notably, Manipur is the only northeastern state to send contingents, with two universities expected to participate from the state.
The absence of Assam's representation in the KIUG 2023 highlights the imperative for a renewed focus on promoting sports and fostering a culture of athletic excellence within the state's academic institutions.
