Guwahati: India's sports fraternity should gear up for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games to be hosted by Delhi in 2010, said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his speech at the closing ceremony of the 33rd National Games on Sunday.
"The time has come for all our sportspersons to roll up their sleeves, tighten their belts and get prepared for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Our national flag must fly high and our torch must burn bright at those Games," Manmohan Singh said.
"We are committed to take India to the top in the Commonwealth Games, in Asian Games and with your effort and dedication in the Olympics," he added.
Manmohan Singh, who is a member of the Rajya Sabha from Assam, thanked the people of the state for successfully hosting the Games.
"I congratulate the sportspersons, the coaches, the organisers, the Government of Assam and most importantly the people of Assam for conducting these Games successfully in Guwahati," he said.
The holding of National Games had initially appeared uncertain after separatist group United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) called upon the people of Assam to boycott the event.
But after an appeal by some of the prominent sports people of the state, the boycott call was withdrawn. The National Games was held in the most successful manner, as thousands of locals flocked to the stadiums every day to cheer the participants.
"The northeast has contributed greatly to the success of Indian sport. This region has been the home to some of our most impressive sports personalities in recent times. This is particularly true of Manipur whose achievements in the sports arena are far greater than size," Manmohan Singh said.
"I hope the state government and all those associated with sports development will remain active in the coming months and years and promote sports in Assam and other northeastern states."
The Prime Minister also urged the corporate sector to look beyond a few popular games like cricket and support new disciplines where domestic talent is blossoming.
He concluded by saying, "I know that the task is challenging but not impossible."
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