PR No – 43
27th February, 2024
New Delhi
It is imperative to realize India’s sporting powerhouse aspirations through collective efforts; Dr. P.T.USHA President, Indian Olympic Association, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha
Speaking at the PHDCCI’s Indian Mixed Martial Summit 2024 organised on 26th February 2024 at PHD House, New Delhi, Dr. P.T.USHA President, Indian Olympic Association, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, discussed on how Prime Minister’s vision for a healthier India encompasses various domains, including sports, making it imperative for both organizations and individuals to lend their support and participation. Initiatives aimed at promoting sporting excellence, such as the efforts of PHDCCI, are commendable and set a positive example for future sporting events in the country.
The first MMA summit in India is expected to not only provide a platform for over a thousand athletes to showcase their skills but also inspire countless others to adopt a more active and healthy lifestyle. It is through such collective efforts that we can realize our aspirations of becoming a sporting powerhouse on the global stage. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the PHDCCI for their initiative and commend the organizers, participants, and spectators for their contributions in making this summit a memorable and successful event, added Dr. P.T.Usha.
Sh. Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Economic Advisory Council of the Prime Minister, and Secretary to Government of India highlighted that MMA isn’t new and has been practiced in ancient civilizations like Greece and India. He emphasized India’s rich tradition of various forms of martial arts, including weapon-based practices, with examples such as Kalaripayattu in Kerala and Gatka in Punjab.
Mr. Sanyal further apprised on the significance of the traditional Akhada system, prevalent in villages and temples across India, which played multifaceted roles including physical training, cultural preservation, and defense against foreign invaders. He also discussed the influence of organizations like the Anushilan Samiti, which faced suppression under British rule but persevered and resurged after independence.
Mr. Sanyal emphasized the importance of modernizing MMA while preserving its original values and traditions and urged for a holistic approach towards MMA, recognizing it not merely as a sport but as an integral part of India’s cultural and historical heritage
Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, Executive Director, PHDCCI, highlighted the transformative power of sports, emphasizing how it instills discipline and a resilient attitude. He emphasized that sports uniquely teaches individuals to strive for excellence, even in the most competitive environments, and serves as a unifying force.
PHDCCI is honored to witness the inspiring stories of hard work shared by attendees, concluded Dr. Mehta
Sh. Raghuram Iyer, Chief Executive Officer, Indian Olympic Association, expressed support for future collaborations and commended PHDCCI for organizing such an impactful event.
The Event was sponsored by Footwear Partner- Trenz, Apparel Partner- Shiv Naresh, official GYM partner UFCGYM India and was supported by PHDCCI annual sponsors, DLF Ltd; Jindal Steel & Power; KLJ Group; Multani Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Marble City; MMG Group; Radico Khaitan Ltd; Uflex Ltd; Vestige; Eazy ERP Technologies; JK Tyre & Industries Ltd; Sagar Group of Industries; Superior Industries Limited; Samsung India Electronics; Oswal Greentech; Apeejay Stya Group; Blossom Kochhar Beauty Products Pvt Ltd; DCM Shriram; R E Rogers; Trident Group; Ajit Industries Pvt Ltd; Bhagwati Plastic and Pipes Industries; Central Coalfields Ltd; DD Pharmaceutical Ltd.; Hindware Sanitary; Jindal Steel; Modern Automobiles; P S BEDI & Co.
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Warm Regards,
Media Division
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry