Bhopal: The mascots of Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG)-2023, Asha and Mowgli, and its smart torch 'Amarkantak' were released along with the theme song on Saturday by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union Minister Nisith Pramanik. Torch Amarkantak, named after the place where the Narmada River, considered the state's lifeline, originates, was also handed over by two players to the CM during the function. During the presentation, it was informed that this is the first smart torch in any game in the country. The torch is adorned with carvings of the renowned Mahakaleshwar temple, running cheetah and a lotus on top. The theme song has been rendered by well-known artiste Shaan. Khelo India Youth Games 2023: List of Sports to be Hosted By Indore Announced.

Speaking at the event, Chouhan said players from the state who will win medals in the Olympics and Asian Games will be appointed to the post of deputy superintendent of police (DSP) and deputy collector. The CM added that teams or players who perform well and win the medals in Khelo India will be given Rs 5 lakh annually for coaching purposes. Pramanik, the Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, said the Centre has been implementing Khelo India as a mission to give a platform to sports talent nationwide. Khelo India Youth Games 2023 Date & Venue Announced; Madhya Pradesh To Host The Next Edition From Jan 31-Feb 11.

He expressed hope the upcoming KIYG in Madhya Pradesh will be historic.

The fifth edition of KIYG, which will take place from January 30 to February 11, is being held in Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Mandla, Balaghat and Khargone (Maheshwar), officials said. "For the first time water sports namely kayaking and canoeing, canoe slalom and rowing, as well as fencing will be part of these games. A total of 27 games will be played across 23 game venues," an official said. Around 6000 players, 303 international and 1089 national officials will take part, while 2,000 volunteers will be deployed at different venues, he added.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)