Panaji: Goa Sports Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar has said that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has awarded the hosting rights of the 36th National Games scheduled for November 2018 to Goa and has asked the Goa Government to proceed with the preparations for the mega event.
In a statement here today, Mr Ajgaonkar said, ”With the blessings, support and guidance of our Honourable Chief Minister (Manohar Parrikar), we will now take a giant step forward in accelerated speed to complete the infrastructure and other facilities to ensure that these Games in 2018 become historic and the best among all the games held so far. There is no looking back now.”
He thanked Indian Olympic Association for considering state’s request and accepting proposal to host the National Games in 2018.
He also thanked Union Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs Rajyavardhan Rathod and said, ”I am confident that being a sportsman himself he will extend his full co-operation to Goa.”
The IOA has acknowledged and appreciated the efforts made by the Government of Goa in the recent years to expedite the hosting of the National Games.
Mr Ajgaonkar made the announcement after receiving an official communication from Indian Olympics Association Secretary General Rajeev Mehta addressed to Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar.
The Government of Goa and the National Games Organizing Committee have been directed to work in close tandem with regards to the preparations of the event.
Various components with regards to protocol and ceremonies, accommodation Games Village, hospitality and co-ordination, transportation and other segments will be mandated to the host city. (UNI)
