Players' role important despite limited resources PM Deuba

Gandaki, Oct 20: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said Nepali athletes has an important role to boost sports despite limited resources.

Addressing the concluding ceremony of the 9th National Games in Pokhara city on Thursday, Prime Minister Deuba praised the Nepali athletes had elevated the country's image with excellent performance in the national and international arena. Sports have a noticeable role in a country, he said, adding that investment from the government and private sector in sports is imperative. Creation of infrastructures at the local and provincial level is equally important, according to him.

The Prime Minister further viewed the infrastructures created for the 9th National Games should be protected. He thanked all sides, including athletes, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and National Sports Council for the successful conduct of the games.

He paid tributes to paraglide player Nimish Thapa who lost his life in course of paragliding under the 9th National Games and extended condolences to the bereaved family members.

On the occasion, Minister for Youth and Sports, Maheshwor Gahatraj, observed that the 9th  National Games was a significant moment in the development of Nepali sports. It has helped establish new talents and explore new potential, he added.

According to him, the government had prioritized the development of sports. It however needs to be further systematic.

Member Secretary of the National Sports Council, Tanka Lal Ghising, said the 9th  National Games was conducted in a grand manner.

The Council's 115th  board meeting has decided to hold the 10th  National Games in Karnali Province, he informed.

Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya said the recent event has proved that Pokhara has huge potential of sports. Entire state needs to emphasize the development of sports. (RSS)