Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: Finally, MOGA has arrived – Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant unveiled the Mascot MOGA, which represents Indian Biason for the 37th National Games at a Mascot launching ceremony on the auspicious occasion of Goa Kranti Din at Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium-Taleigao organised by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and the Sports Authority of Goa.
Speaking on occasion, Chief Minister said this day is important in the history of Goa as we celebrate Goa Revolution Day, and youngsters should start a new revolution in sports. As Goa is hosting National games for the first time, he appealed to all the associations and people of Goa to use this platform and participate in the upcoming National games in large numbers. Focusing on FIT INDIA Movement launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr Sawant said it is essential to ensure the fitness of our youth to make India Fit.
Although Goa is the smallest State, it is ready to host National and international events, and we have proved it earlier by hosting events such as the International Film Festival of India, the Lusofonia Games, and Khelo India Centres, he added.
Minister for Sports Shri Govind Gaude, describing MOGA Mascot, said the word Moga derives from Konkani, meaning Love. Moga symbolises the passion and love that our athletes have towards their respective disciplines. We have chosen Moga as the Mascot with an aim to inspire our athletes and ignite their passion for sports. Shri Gaude appeals to every sportsperson and athlete to never give up said. National games are an event and a strong foundation for Goan athletes, Indian athletes and sportspersons. It is a good platform and opportunity for building a personality, he pointed out.
As the Special Invitee for the function, Dr P.T Usha Chairman Indian Olympic Association, congratulated the State Government for hosting the prestigious 37th National Games. It said National Games are not merely a competition but the hard work of numerous athletes who have dedicated their lives to their respective disciplines. It provides a platform to showcase their skills and talents, she added.
Olympic Medalist & Padma Vibhushan Awardee, Smt. MC Mary said Goa would soon be recognised as a sports hub and identified as Goa land of Sun, Sand and Sports. She concluded by saying let us all aspire and inspire before we expire.
Also, a jersey was unveiled on the occasion.
Also, present on the occasion were Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan Khaunte; Chief Secretary Shri Puneet Kumar Goel, IAS and other dignitaries
Earlier, Smt Swetika Sachan, IAS Secretary of Sports, welcomed the gathering. Dr Geeta Nagvekar, Executive Director, SAG, proposed the vote of thanks.
