Keeping in sync with the central government’s vision of a united Northeast, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday said that that the forthcoming fourth edition of the Khelo India University Games 2023 will showcase the spirit of the region, as he welcomed the participants while launching the logo and mascot Ashtalakshmi at a glittering ceremony held here on Thursday.

“The theme of the Games is United by Spirit, Empowered by Passion,” CM Sarma said in his opening statement.

Ashtalakshmi – a vibrant butterfly and an embodiment of grace and symbolism, represents the rich biodiversity and natural splendour of Northeast India. This elegant butterfly adorned with wings featuring cultural motifs and colours from each state, the mascot depicts a visually captivating representation of the diverse beauty of the Northeast India.

Among the other attendees in the event were Minister of State for Sports Nisith Pramanik, Assam Sports Minister Nandita Garlosa, Secretary, Sports Kausar Jamil Hilaly, along with a host of sports organisers, athletes from across the eight Northeastern states.

The presence of Northeast’s sports icons, national medal winning boxer Pwilao Basumatary, international shuttler Suraj Goala, international table tennis player Divyaj Rajkhowa, Tripura judoka Rikson Debbarma, added to the special occasion.

Reflecting on Modi’s vision of investing in youth through sports, Assam CM Sarma said, “Assam has been the sports destination of the Northeast, having successfully hosted mega events like the South East Asian Games, the second edition of Khelo India Youth Games and most recently the Khel Maharan where over 6 lakh youth registered to participate. With Olympic stars like Lovlina Borgohain hailing from our state, our focus on youth development has been at the forefront of our efforts to put Assam on the world map.”

Speaking on the occasion, Nisith Pramanik said, “Drawing inspiration from the remarkable achievements of athletes who have soared to prominence through platforms like the Asian Games, we recognise the transformative power of sports in shaping lives and transcending boundaries.”

Assam will host a total of 16 disciplines during the Khelo India University Games 2024, reflecting the state’s dedication to providing world-class sporting infrastructure. This will include an array of events including athletics, rugby, basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, hockey, fencing, kabaddi, football, tennis, mallakhamb, judo, table tennis, boxing, and shooting.

The rest of the Northeastern states will play host to four events, including men’s boxing, weightlifting, wrestling and yogasana.

Over 4,500 athletes representing more than 200 universities from across the nation are set to take part in 20 different disciplines that will be held across 18 venues, in seven cities of the NorthEast. The tournament will provide a good platform for university athletes to compete with the best among them for glory.