Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has said the state government will focus on identifying and nurturing sporting talent in rural areas while expanding opportunities for athletes to excel at national and international levels.
Speaking at a banquet dinner hosted by the Basketball Federation of India and the Karnataka State Basketball Association for teams participating in the FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia 2026, Shivakumar thanked the international basketball body for selecting Bengaluru to host the tournament.
He welcomed the participating teams and expressed hope that they would enjoy the city’s climate, culture and hospitality. He also congratulated the Indian Olympic Association, Karnataka Olympic Association and the tournament organisers for their efforts in bringing the event to Bengaluru.
“Our government is committed to encouraging sporting talent from rural areas. We do not yet know from which region the next national or international-level athlete will emerge,” Shivakumar said.
Referring to Indian athletes’ achievements at the Asian Games, he expressed confidence that sportspersons from across Asia would achieve greater success at the upcoming Olympic Games.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the state government’s support for athletes, including reservations in government jobs for those who excel at national and international competitions. He said such measures would encourage more youngsters to pursue sports.
Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister G. Parameshwara, Minister M.B. Patil, Minister T. Raghumurthy, FIBA Asia representatives, Karnataka Olympic Association officials, Legislative Council member Dr. K. Govindaraj, senior officials and athletes attended the event.
Shivakumar extended his best wishes to all participating teams for a successful tournament.
