BENGALURU
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar joined thousands of passionate young fans in Bengaluru to watch the thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup final match. Shivakumar praised the incredible discipline and sportsmanship displayed by local spectators throughout the massive screening event organized by Congress MLA N.A. Harris, the Bengaluru Development Authority, and the Karnataka State Football Association.
During the gathering, Shivakumar announced a transformative state initiative aimed at empowering local youth through sports and cultural development. The government is establishing the ‘Jodo Youth Association’ at the Gram Panchayat level to identify and train talented individuals from rural regions. This grassroots project seeks to prepare around 10,000 young men and women across Karnataka to participate actively in sports and arts initiatives, supported by thousands of crores in state funding.
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that sports foster essential life values like teamwork, unity, and respect among the younger generation. Expressing deep confidence in the state’s sports enthusiasts, Shivakumar noted that disciplined young citizens would respect law and order while channelling their energy into athletic excellence.
Through these ambitious programs, Karnataka aims to build a robust sports ecosystem, providing rural athletes with top-tier training facilities, financial backing, and clear pathways toward national and international competitions.
