Dr. Karunesh Kumar, former India international and competition manager for KIYG Bihar 2025, described the inclusion of the sport as a \u201cmilestone moment\u201d for athletes and emphasised its long-term significance.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe introduction of Sepak Takraw as a medal sport in the seventh edition of KIYG is vital for the relevance of the sport. It is a milestone moment for the sport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi\u2019s vision of promoting sports in India has been instrumental in shaping the Khelo India Games, and now it is a brand of its own. Being associated with the brand will further enhance the popularity of the sport in India.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe already have our presence in National Games, University Games, and now this tag will further boost the sport\u2019s popularity,\u201d he pointed out.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The sport has traditionally been associated with India\u2019s Northeastern states but ever since it has been recognised as one of the 14 priority sports in Bihar, the state has emerged as one of the growing powerhouses, with one of its players - Bobby Kumar - also being a part of the gold medal-winning team at the World Cup, and three others from the state are currently part of the national team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ever since the state government started focussing on the sport post-Covid, there has been a massive surge in players' participation with over 600 players actively involved in the sport, and its reach expanding across multiple districts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Highlighting the state government\u2019s effort, Kumar stated that all sports bodies have to conduct mandatory training camps for a minimum of 15 days before participation in major games. With his team completing a 30-day camp, a confident Kumar expects the home side to win at least a medal in each of the four events - doubles, regu, quad, and team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ever since the state government started focussing on the sport post-Covid, there has been a massive surge in players' participation with over 600 players actively involved in the sport, and its reach expanding across multiple districts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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