Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for an International Cricket stadium in Varanasi on September 23, 2023. The stadium is being developed in Ganjari, Rajatalab, Varanasi. The construction of this modern cricket stadium costs around 450 crores, and it spreads across more than 30 acres.

PM Narendra Modi expressed his happiness after visiting Varanasi. He said that this city holds a special place in his heart. He also noted that the Chandrayaan mission reached the moon’s surface and referred to Varanasi as another place of Shiv Shakti (power of Lord Shiva), with one being on the moon and the other in Kashi. He also talked about the importance of the stadium’s location, which is at the intersection of the route to Mata Vindhyavasini, near the Village of Maikot.

The design of the stadium has thrilled the citizens of Kashi. It will host great cricket matches that will become a prominent venue in the region. It emphasizes young athletes with international standards. This could include economic benefits from hosting matches and providing sports facilities for local residents.

The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their contribution to the development of the stadium. The countries are now playing cricket, leading to an increased number of matches. This indicates the involvement of the cricket governing body in making the stadium a reality. The positive impact on sports coaching and management institutions creates opportunities for youth to get involved in sports startups, coaching, and sports management, and with various increases in tourism benefits sectors, including hotels, eateries, rickshaws, auto drivers, and even oarsmen, and provides water sports.

The Physiotherapy course is likely to be a part of the sports infrastructure development. The Prime Minister suggested that this would give rise to a new sports industry in Varanasi, potentially creating job opportunities and economic growth in the region. He is indicating to parents now to recognize the importance of sports in the growth and development of their children. The popular saying “Jo Khelega wo hi Khilega” (“One who will play will blossom”). The government identifies local talent and aims to groom them into international-level athletes. He expressed gratitude to stalwarts from the sporting community for their support and affection toward the city of Kashi.

The Prime Minister credited the people of Kashi for the development and efforts that are ongoing in the city. “With your support and blessings, we will keep on scripting new chapters of Kashi’s development.”

Yogi Adityanath, CM of Uttar Pradesh, the President of BCCI, the Vice President of BCCI, many former cricket players, and many ministers were present on this occasion.

-Uttara Singh Chauhan