Khelo India Youth Games 2023, Tamil Nadu: Five Distinctive Features Setting This Edition Apart

The Khelo India Youth Games is a premier event for emerging talents in diverse sports, fostering skill development and excellence. The highly anticipated 2023 edition in Tamil Nadu, scheduled for January 19-31, 2024, will unfold across Chennai, Trichi, Madurai, and Coimbatore.

Five distinctive features set this 6th edition apart, including its debut in South India, the historic choice of Rani Velu Nachiyar as mascot, the introduction of squash and Silambam, and the noteworthy achievement of hosting all sports disciplines within the state.

1. First time in South India

A groundbreaking moment for South India and Tamil Nadu, the Khelo India Youth Games, initially conceived as Khelo India School Games in 2018, have expanded significantly, now known as the Khelo India Youth Games. In this edition, more than 5500 athletes from every Indian state and Union Territory will participate, highlighting the growth and nationwide representation of the event.

2. Historical Relevance And Woman As a Mascot For The First Time

Breaking from the convention of using national animals or birds as mascots, Tamil Nadu pioneers by featuring Rani Velu Nachiyar, the courageous freedom fighter, as the mascot for the Khelo India Youth Games. Known as 'Veera Mangai,' she was the first Indian queen to confront the East India Company in war. Her valor and contributions are integrated into school curricula, fostering historical awareness and inspiring the younger generation.

3. Squash Making Its Khelo India Debut

Chennai shares a special relationship with squash, dating back to 1990 when the Squash Rackets Federation of India established the India Squash Academy in the city. The region has produced numerous national and international squash stars and hosted prestigious events, including the Squash World Cup. Reflecting this deep connection, Khelo India Youth Games introduces squash in its lineup. With squash's recent shortlisting for inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, this move not only identifies new talent but also contributes to expanding the sport's popularity and fostering its growth throughout the country.

4. Silambam Makes Debut As Demo Sport

Silambam, an ancient weapon-based martial art, is a source of pride for Tamil Nadu, dating back to the 4th century BC with rich references in Tamil Sangam literature. Named after its bamboo staff weapon, this traditional art has earned recognition from the Union Sports Ministry under the 'Promotion of inclusiveness through sports' initiative. In a significant move, Silambam will be showcased at all Khelo India venues, featuring nearly 1000 players demonstrating their mastery, marking its inclusion as a demo sport and highlighting its cultural significance.

5. Tamil Nadu To Host All Sports Disciplines Within The State

In the past two Khelo India Youth Games editions, due to insufficient infrastructure, certain sports disciplines like shooting and cycling were conducted outside the host states. During the games in Haryana, these events took place in Delhi, and similarly, when Madhya Pradesh hosted in 2022, cycling was relocated to Delhi.

However, the upcoming Tamil Nadu edition breaks this trend, successfully hosting all sports disciplines within the state, including cycling at a state-of-the-art velodrome.

In a notable achievement, Tamil Nadu breaks the trend of the last three editions, becoming the first state to host all sports disciplines, including cycling. The state showcases its infrastructure prowess by conducting cycling events at the state-of-the-art velodrome in Melakottaiyur at the Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University (TNPESU).

Additionally, shooting events will take place in Velachery and Alamadi, providing a platform for the state and country's emerging sharpshooters to aim for excellence and hit the bull's-eye.