Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini Felicitates Gold Medal-Winning Kabaddi Players from Asian Youth Games 2025
Victory embodies Haryana’s rural spirit and youth’s determination, says Chief Minister
Chandigarh, December 14, 2025: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday felicitated a delegation of state players from the Indian boys’ and girls’ kabaddi teams that clinched gold medals at the Asian Youth Games 2025 in Bahrain. The warm interaction took place at the CM’s residence, Sant Kabir Kutir, in Chandigarh.
The Chief Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the players, particularly highlighting Captain Ishant Rathee, and welcomed the entire team for their outstanding performance on the international stage.
Describing the achievement as a moment of immense pride for both Haryana and the nation, Saini said the victories reflect the state’s rural culture, discipline, willpower, and fighting spirit. He praised the unsung role of coaches and trainers, calling them the true architects behind the players’ success.
“This triumph will inspire thousands of village children playing on dusty grounds to dream big and aim for international glory,” the CM added, emphasizing how such journeys from local akharas to global arenas instill confidence in Haryana’s youth.
Saini highlighted the state government’s long-term vision for sports, initiated 11 years ago, which focuses on building playgrounds in every village, establishing sports nurseries, and providing opportunities to talented youngsters. He reiterated Haryana’s reputation as India’s “sports nursery” and its ambition to become a global sports capital.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of making India a sporting superpower by the 2036 Olympics—potentially hosted in India—and the upcoming Commonwealth Games in 2030, the CM expressed confidence that Haryana athletes would continue to excel.
He also announced that special provisions for encouraging young sportspersons would be included in the upcoming 2026-27 Budget. The Chief Minister met the players’ family members and congratulated them personally.
The delegation included Chairman of the Asian Kabaddi Federation Gulab Saini, selector and coach Deepak Hooda, and players Harsh Maan (Vice-Captain), Diksha Rathee, Komal Saharan, Akash, Subham, Akhil, Kashav, Aditya Hooda, and Aryan.
India dominated kabaddi at the Games, with both teams remaining unbeaten and defeating Iran in the finals to complete a clean sweep.
