A call for Olympic ambition took centre stage in Agartala on National Sports Day as Olympian and Arjuna Award winner Ashok Kumar Singh urged young athletes in Tripura to turn discipline, hard work and dedication into a pathway to the world biggest sporting stage.
Key Takeaways:
- Olympian Ashok Kumar Singh urged Tripura athletes to target Olympic medals through hard work and discipline.
- The son of Major Dhyan Chand praised Tripura sports infrastructure and government initiatives.
- Singh said the state has the potential to produce more Olympians in the coming years.
Olympian and Arjuna Award winner Ashok Kumar Singh has urged young sportspersons in Tripura to set their sights on Olympic medals. Speaking at a National Sports Day programme in Agartala, Singh stressed hard work, discipline and dedication as the foundation for sporting success.
Singh is the son of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. He recalled his father contribution to Indian hockey and his deep sense of patriotism. He said Major Dhyan Chand built a lasting legacy through exceptional commitment to the sport.
Ashok Kumar Singh Calls for Olympic Ambition
Singh urged emerging athletes from Tripura to dream beyond national competitions. He encouraged them to work towards representing India at the Olympic Games.
According to Singh, sporting success requires sustained effort and discipline. Young athletes must remain committed to training and maintain focus on their goals.
He also highlighted the importance of dedication in overcoming challenges. Athletes, he said, should use every available opportunity to improve their skills.
Singh message assumes significance as Tripura continues to expand its sports infrastructure and support system for athletes.
Major Dhyan Chand Legacy Remembered
Singh recalled the sporting journey of Major Dhyan Chand during the programme.
Major Dhyan Chand remains one of the most celebrated figures in Indian hockey. His achievements helped establish India as a dominant force in international hockey during his era.
Singh highlighted his father commitment to the country and the sport. He said the hockey legend achieved global recognition despite having access to far fewer facilities than athletes enjoy today.
His life, according to Singh, remains an example of perseverance and national pride.
The programme also marked National Sports Day, observed every year on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand.
Praise for Tripura Sports Infrastructure
Singh praised the sports infrastructure currently being developed in Tripura.
He said the state has created better opportunities for athletes and is moving towards a stronger sporting ecosystem.
The state government has built synthetic football turfs at several locations. Modern facilities are also being developed for different sports.
An international-standard cricket stadium is under construction at Narsingarh. Plans are also underway for a large spectator gallery at Badharghat.
Modern sports hostels and youth accommodation facilities are being developed at Badharghat, Kailashahar and Udaipur.
Singh said such facilities can provide young athletes with a stronger platform to develop their talent.
Government Support for Athletes
The National Sports Day programme also highlighted government efforts to support successful sportspersons.
The Tripura government has introduced financial rewards for athletes who achieve success at national and international competitions.
The government has also extended assistance to athletes who travel outside the state for advanced training.
Recent recognition of Commonwealth Games judo champion Asmita Dey was cited as an example of such support. Dey received financial assistance and land from the state government.
These measures aim to encourage athletes to pursue higher levels of competition.
More Olympians Expected From Tripura
Singh expressed optimism about the future of sports in Tripura.
He said the state has the potential to produce many more Olympians. Improved infrastructure, better training opportunities and financial support can help young athletes pursue that goal.
His appeal also comes at a time when the state is seeking to bring more young people into organised sports.
The National Sports Day programme began with Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha unveiling a statue of Major Dhyan Chand at the Dasarath Deb State Sports Complex in Badharghat.
Saha said the government is committed to taking Tripura sports sector to a higher level. He stressed the need for world-class facilities, professional training and financial assistance for talented athletes.
Athletes and Coaches Felicitated
The programme also recognised sportspersons and coaches who brought laurels to Tripura at national and international levels during the 2025–26 financial year.
Awards and financial assistance were presented to outstanding athletes and coaches.
The event brought together senior government officials, sportspersons and sports personalities.
For Tripura young athletes, however, Singh message carried a wider significance: sporting dreams must be matched by discipline, sustained training and the determination to compete at the highest level.
His call to target Olympic medals offered a clear ambition for the next generation of sportspersons from the state.
