MARGAO
An air of excitement prevailed at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium on Wednesday ahead of the inaugural ceremony of the 37th National Games, with Sport Minister Govind Gawde exuding confidence of completing the balance works at the Stadium by midnight.
He, however, conceded that a major challenge stares at the agencies on the security front and how to handle the thousands of spectators expected to throng the Nehru stadium on Thursday.
Promising an extravaganza at the national games inaugural, the Sports Minister said the Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be welcomed at the Nehru stadium by the beating of 37 'Dolls' (drums) to signing for the 37th National Games. Besides, a fusion of culture and sports performed by around 600 artists will welcome the Prime Minister at the stadium.
“We are all set to welcome the Prime Minister, the athletes, spectators, VVIPs and others at the inaugural ceremony”, Gawde said, while promising that Goan hospitality will be on display throughout the games.
He added: “We had put all our planning and organizational skills to work. I can say that we are all gearing up for the show. Whatever minor works that remains at the Nehru stadium will be completed by midnight”.
Meanwhile, hectic activity was witnessed inside the stadium and outside on Wednesday evening as the stage is finally set for the inauguration of the National Games at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant along with senior officials, including DGP Jaspal Singh descended at the stadium to take a review of the situation.
Artists who have been roped in to perform at the inaugural ceremony were also brought by vehicles for a rehearsal at the stadium.
Goa police and para-military police took up positions inside and outside the stadium on Wednesday evening to participate in the mock drill.
