Published on Oct 30
GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday unveiled the logo, mascot, jersey and theme song of Khel Maharan 3.0 at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra here on Friday.
The logo represents Assam’s sporting spirit and incorporates elements from eight disciplines—athletics, volleyball, yoga, chess, football, aquathlon, swimming and boxing. The mascot, named ‘Sonto’, is inspired by the golden langur, an iconic symbol of Assam’s natural heritage.
The theme song has been written by litterateur Kailash Nath Sharma, with singer Dikshu lending his voice and composing the music.
Sarma said Khel Maharan aims not only to encourage mass participation in sports but also to identify talented athletes and connect them with advanced training and higher-level opportunities. He added that a ‘Shishu Krira Samaroh’ had been introduced this year to identify and nurture sporting talent among children below 12, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s suggestion.
Nearly 60 lakh players, including 34 lakh men and 26 lakh women, have registered for the third edition.
The Chief Minister also announced monthly scholarships of Rs 3,000 for 5,000 emerging athletes in phases. Of these, 500 promising sportspersons will receive annual scholarships for two years to help meet expenses related to training, equipment, nutrition and other essentials.
He also said that from the fourth edition two traditional games of the State will be included in Khel Maharan.
Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Biswajit Daimary, MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, MLAs Bijoy Gupta, Diplu Ranjan Sharma and Tapan Das, Assam Olympic Association secretary Lakhya Konwar, senior officials and other dignitaries attended the programme.
PHOTO CAPTION: Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma (right) and Sports Minister Biswajit Daimary with the mascot.