Non-Cricket Sports Need to be Given Their Rightful Place, Grassroots Talent Must be Strengthened: MYAS Minister of State Smt. Raksha Khadse
SJFI Golden Jubilee National Convention Celebrations Begin in New Delhi
Dr. Shrikrishna Sharma
New Delhi. The Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Convention of the Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) commenced in grand style here at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium on Friday. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Smt. Raksha Khadse, stated that there is a need to accord non-cricket sports their rightful place and recognition, while simultaneously strengthening grassroots talent. This four-day National Convention is being hosted by the Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA), marking its return to the national capital after a gap of over two decades. In her address, Smt. Khadse remarked, “The pivotal role played by sports journalists in fostering a sports culture is truly inspiring.
There is a pressing need to nurture talent at the grassroots level. Through your work, you are infusing new energy into the world of sports. The manner in which you cover sports helps people understand how they can advance in this field and encourages the younger generation to actively participate.” Smt. Khadse emphasized the necessity of giving adequate space to non-cricket sports; she also highlighted the importance of government initiatives, promoting sports tourism, and opening up career avenues in emerging fields such as sports science. She noted that journalism—often referred to as the ‘Fourth Pillar of Democracy’—is essential for advancing the welfare of society, and that sports media plays a crucial role in showcasing India’s ‘soft power’ on the global stage. She also appealed for greater participation of women in this field.
Apart from Smt. Khadse, the event was attended by Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao and several senior members of the sports journalism fraternity. The proceedings commenced in the traditional manner with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by a series of felicitation ceremonies honoring distinguished personalities and contributors to the field. DSJA President Abhishek Tripathi felicitated Mrs. Khadse, while DSJA Secretary Sabee Hussain honored Ranjan Rao.
The SJFI leadership—President Sarju Chakraborty and Secretary V. Ramesh—also honored the chief guests by draping shawls over them. Mrs. Khadse felicitated the SJFI President and Secretary, and subsequently, joined the SJFI leadership in honoring the State Presidents and Secretaries of affiliated sports journalists’ associations from across the country. During the ceremony, Mrs. Navneeta Das, AGM of Corporate Communications at Jindal Steel, was also felicitated on behalf of Lok Sabha MP Naveen Jindal.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the JK Bose Inter-Zonal T20 Cricket Trophy and the AC Bali Table Tennis Trophy, marking the formal commencement of the convention’s competitive sporting segment. The draw for the JK Bose Inter-Zonal T20 Cricket Tournament also took place, setting the stage for two exciting encounters: South vs. East and West vs. North.
Delivering the welcome address, DSJA President Tripathi remarked, “When we were asked to host the SJFI Convention in Delhi, we pondered how to organize it after a gap of 23 years and how to bring everyone together.” He added that the support received from the Ministry of Sports helped them overcome numerous challenges and move forward.
SJFI National Convention 2026 – Golden Jubilee Edition:
The SJFI National Convention is India’s most prestigious annual event, bringing together over 250 senior sports journalists, sports administrators, policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders. The Golden Jubilee National Convention holds special national significance, celebrating SJFI’s five decades of contribution to Indian sports and media. The SJFI is recognized by and affiliated with the global sports journalists’ body, also known as AIPS. This historic edition celebrates the completion of 50 years of the Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI). It serves as India’s most influential and enduring platform for sports journalism, sports governance, and national sports discourse. (Sports Editor)
