Patna: Extensive security measures have been put in place as Bihar prepares to host the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, marking the first time the state is staging the prestigious national sporting event. The games will run from May 4 to May 15, with the opening ceremony to be inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Additional police personnel have been deployed along all roads leading to Patliputra Sports Complex in Kankerbagh, Patna, the central venue for the opening and closing ceremonies. The move is aimed at ensuring seamless traffic flow for athletes, their support teams, and spectators arriving from across the country.
Senior state officials, including Bihar Sports Department Additional Chief Secretary B. Rajender, Director General of Police Vinay Kumar, Bihar State Sports Authority DG Raveendra Sankaran, and ADGP (Headquarters) Kundan Krishnan, conducted a detailed inspection of the sports complex on Thursday. They assessed arrangements for athlete safety, crowd control, and emergency response.
“Our priority is to ensure a smooth and secure experience for everyone—from athletes to spectators,” a senior official said following the review.
Top officials also examined traffic management plans, particularly for arterial roads feeding into the sports complex, and directed Patna Police to ensure strict adherence to the updated protocols.
This edition of the Khelo India Youth Games will see participation from around 10,000 athletes, coaches, physiotherapists and support staff representing 28 states and eight union territories. Competitions will be held across 28 sporting disciplines, with events spread over five cities in Bihar: Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai.
To encourage public participation and foster sporting enthusiasm, the entry to all stadiums has been made free, with no tickets required for spectators. Authorities hope this measure will boost turnout and morale, particularly for young athletes competing on a national stage.
Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and other dignitaries are expected to attend the opening event. The closing ceremony will also take place at Patliputra Sports Complex on May 15.
Senior officials from Patna district administration, including Zonal IG Garima Malik and SSP Avkash Kumar, accompanied the inspection team to finalise ground-level preparations.
