Vakiti Srihari calls for flawless Khelo India Youth Games preparations in Telangana

Hyderabad: Sports and Youth Services Minister Vakiti Srihari on Tuesday directed officials to ensure flawless Khelo India Youth Games preparations in Telangana. He warned that administrative failures during the 2026 event could damage the state’s credibility.

The Minister issued the directions during a special coordination meeting at Tourist Plaza in Begumpet on November 10. Deputy Collectors and Sports Department officials attended the meeting.

Srihari said the successful conduct of the national sporting event would strengthen Telangana’s standing in the country’s sports sector. He also urged officials to treat the preparations as a major responsibility.

Khelo India Youth Games preparations require close coordination

Vakiti Srihari called for coordinated efforts among officials across Telangana’s districts to ensure the smooth conduct of the games. He stressed that every official involved in organising the event must carry out assigned responsibilities with complete commitment.

Further, the Minister warned that administrative lapses could affect Telangana’s reputation as a host of major sporting events. He said the successful execution of the games would help position Telangana as a preferred destination for future sporting competitions.

Accordingly, he urged officials to maintain high standards while preparing for national and international sporting events. Srihari credited Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s persistent efforts with the Central government for Telangana securing the event.

He described the opportunity to host the national games as a significant achievement for the state. “Securing the event for Telangana, despite the opposition-led BJP governing at the Centre, is a matter of immense pride for our state,” Srihari said.

The Minister also recalled his meeting with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in Srinagar. During that meeting, Srihari formally presented Telangana’s proposal to host the Khelo India Youth Games.

He emphasised that the state must now justify the opportunity through effective organisation and coordination. Srihari reiterated that the event’s success would enhance Telangana’s credibility and strengthen its prospects of hosting future national and international competitions.