Himalaya Harbinger, Uttarakhand Bureau.
Khatima in district Udham Singh Nagar has been proposed as the venue for Mallakhamb in the upcoming 38th National Games, while Pithoragarh and Almora have been chosen to host boxing and yoga, respectively. However, the final decision hinges on the inspection report by the Director of Competition (DOC), expected in the coming days.
The National Games are scheduled to take place in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14. Until now, Tehri was the only hill district designated as a venue, which led to demands for more hill regions to be included. With the addition of yoga and Mallakhamb to the list of primary sports, discussions regarding suitable venues gained traction.
A meeting between the Sports Department and the Uttaranchal Olympic Association (UOA) concluded with the proposal to host Mallakhamb in Khatima, boxing in Pithoragarh, and yoga in Almora. “We aim to utilize the diverse capabilities of Uttarakhand’s hill regions and make the National Games inclusive,” said Mahesh Negi, President of the UOA.
The Technical Organizing Committee of the Indian Olympic Association, GTCC has expressed its preliminary approval for these venues. “The inclusion of hill districts will highlight Uttarakhand’s cultural and geographical diversity in sports,” said DK Singh, General Secretary of UOA.
The DOC is scheduled to inspect all proposed venues within the next ten days. Their report will determine the final decision. “The inspection will ensure all venues meet the required standards for hosting national-level competitions,” added Negi.
