ITANAGAR, Jan 5: Arun-achal Pradesh is fielding 51 athletes in the second Khelo India Youth Games, beginning at Pune in Maha-rashtra from 9 January.
The competition will be held in 18 disciplines for boys and girls in the U-17 and U-21 age categories.
The state is fielding athletes in archery (3), athletics (3), badminton (4), boxing (12), judo (11), weightlifting (27) and wrestling (2). The state contingent comprises 22 girls and 29 boys, informed Assistant Sports Director Karbia Dodum.
Of the total 51 athletes, 26 have qualified through the National Schools Games and national championships in their respective sports disciplines, while the remaining 25 were given wildcards by the Games’ technical conduct committee for participation, Dodum, who is also the state coordinator of Khelo India Youth Games, said.
Sports Director Tadar Appa is the chef-de-mission.
Khelo India is a national flagship programme for development of sports nationwide.
There will be observers during the games, and the excellent athletes will be selected and groomed to represent the country in various international events.
Under the Khelo India talent identification programme, talented sportsperson in various disciplines are given financial support of Rs 5 lakhs per annum for a period of 8 years.
A few sportspersons from Arunachal Pradesh are availing this stipend.
