Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted on Saturday that the Interim Budget 2024 is dedicated to the youth of the country. During a virtual address at the launch of Pali Sansad Khel Mahakumbh, organized by BJP MP PP Chaudhary from Pali, Modi highlighted the government’s commitment to spending over ₹11 lakh crore on rail, road, and modern infrastructure.
“The budget that has come is dedicated to the youth of the country. The government is going to spend more than ₹11 lakh crore on rail, road, and modern infrastructure. The biggest beneficiaries will be our youth,” remarked PM Modi. He underlined that improved infrastructure would create a plethora of new employment opportunities for the youth.
Youth Prioritization by BJP Governments
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the consistent priority given to the youth by BJP governments, both at the state and central levels. He pointed out that the sports budget has seen a remarkable three-fold increase over the past decade, demonstrating the commitment to fostering talent and creating a conducive environment for aspiring athletes.
“BJP governments, be they in states or at the Centre, give top priority to the youth. By giving maximum opportunities to aspiring athletes, bringing transparency to the selection of players, and providing all possible resources to them, we are creating an ecosystem for them to excel and flourish,” stated PM Modi.
Significant Rise in Sports Budget and Initiatives
Highlighting the substantial progress in sports infrastructure and programs, Prime Minister Modi stated, “In the last ten years, the sports budget has risen around 3 times of what it was before.” He emphasized the impact of initiatives such as the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOP) and ‘Khelo India,’ which provide advanced training and financial assistance to athletes.
“Through ‘Khelo India,’ over 3,000 players are being provided assistance worth Rs. 50,000 every month,” PM Modi noted. These efforts contribute to the holistic development of athletes and nurture talent across various sporting disciplines.
Sports as a Catalyst for Youth Development
PM Modi underscored the multifaceted benefits of sports for the youth, emphasizing its role in protecting them from harmful addictions. He expressed that sports build willpower, enhance concentration, and instill a clear focus on life goals. Furthermore, he noted that sports play a pivotal role in personality development, fostering the habit of winning and inspiring continuous improvement.
“A key aspect of sports is that they not only make you cultivate the habit of winning but inspire you to become better and better in life. Sports teach us that excellence has no limits,” affirmed Prime Minister Modi.
Budgetary Dedication to Youth and Beyond
Concluding his address, PM Modi reiterated the commitment to the youth of the country reflected in the Interim Budget. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the youth from various evils through sports and reiterated that the budget aims to create a conducive environment for their overall development.
“Another key aspect of sports is that it protects the youth from many evils. They strengthen willpower, increase concentration, and help us have a clear focus on whatever we wish to pursue in life. Sports also play a big role in personality development,” PM Modi concluded, highlighting the broader societal impact of youth-centric policies and investments.