External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur today inaugurated the Squash Courts at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium in New Delhi. These are the first-ever Squash courts opened by the Sports Authority of India in any centre across the country.

Addressing the event, Dr Jaishankar who is also an avid Squash enthusiast, said, the Ministry of Sports is solely responsible for the entire project and for making the facilities available. He said, many sports now are getting recognition and the message sent out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inculcate a lifestyle of fitness and give chance to talents, is being resonated everywhere. Dr Jaishankar said, Mr Modi has always stressed on physical fitness, competitiveness and mental strength, which is needed for New India.

Dr Jaishankar also mentioned that the Government of India will do everything possible to create more such sports facilities in the country. The External Affairs Minister said, he started playing Squash at the age of 24 and he is 68 today. He said, all we need is good facilities, good coach and an intention to play. Dr Jaishankar said, Khelo India and Fit India is for one and all and this has no age limit.

Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur reiterated the vision of the Prime Minister and said, Mr Modi has always wanted increasing strength and competitiveness in sports as well as mental belief. He said, having this facility at the national capital is another way of achieving that aim.

Mr Thakur said, when there is an opportunity like this, there is a possibility of new stars emerging. Referring how young champions can benefit from the Government of India schemes, The Minister said, he has full belief that having such a world-class Squash infrastructure will definitely target more such promising champions in the coming years and we are ready to support them through our Target Olympic Podium Scheme and Khelo India Scheme.

He said, India has bagged a total of 3 medals at the Commonwealth Games over the years and 13 medals at the Asian Games in the sport of Squash. He added that this tally will keep increasing.

The foundation stone of the project was laid by former Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju back in December 2020. Sports Secretary Sujata Chaturvedi, Director General of Sports Authority of India Sandip Pradhan and Director (Projects), NBCC Neelesh Shah were present during the inauguration ceremony among others.