The 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, India, have not only showcased exceptional athletic talent but also made a significant commitment to sustainability. The Games, which run until February 14, feature 35 sports disciplines and have introduced medals made from 30% recycled metals sourced from e-waste, reducing India’s import dependency and minimizing carbon emissions. The initiative aims to reduce the country’s reliance on virgin metals and minimize waste.
The second day of the Games saw intense competition and thrilling achievements, with athletes from various states displaying exceptional talent and sporting prowess. Weightlifting events highlighted top performers, including Rishikanta Singh and Gyaneshwari Yadav, who claimed gold medals in their respective categories. Parth Mane, a 16-year-old from Maharashtra, emerged as the men’s 10m air rifle champion, beating Olympic competitors and demonstrating impressive skill and composure.
Other notable performances included Isha Gurjan and Mayank Panwar in Wushu, Kushagra Rawat in swimming, and Haryana’s dominance in the Men’s Rugby 7s event. The Games have also seen impressive performances from athletes from Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, with Nyeman Wangsu earning her third consecutive gold medal and T Saya Chanu bringing home gold for Manipur.
The National Games serve as a platform for athletes to exhibit their skills and as a gathering of sporting talent across the country. With the promise of more record-breaking performances, the excitement is palpable as the Games progress. The event is not just about winning medals but also about fostering national pride and commitment to innovation and sustainability within India’s sports culture.