“I am committed to providing all necessary technical inputs to design a roadmap for the development of water sports in Uttarakhand.”
STC Exclusive Report
Srinagar, January 04 (STC): Kashmir-based “Water Queen of India”, Bilquis Mir, who is the first woman from India to represent the country in Paris Summer Olympics 2024 as jury member, has been nominated as the Director of Competition in Kayaking and Canoeing for the prestigious 38th National Games to be held in Uttarakhand 2025 in the last week of this month.
The 2025 National Games of India, 38th in series, will be held in the State of Uttarakhand with host city being Dehradun. The event is opening on January 28 and will close on February 14, 2025. 37 teams with over 10000 athletes from different states are expected to participate in the event.
The “water queen” was given a warm welcome in Uttarakhand as soon as she arrived there to participate in the preparatory activities to make the 38th National Games a grand success. The state authorities welcomed her warmly and proudly acknowledged, “She is the first from the country.”
In an exclusive conversation with Straight Talk Communications (STC), Bilquis Mir, said, “The recognition I received from Uttarakhand State was a profound gesture of honor and respect. This recognition and celebration of my achievements reminded me of the power of gratitude and acknowledgment, not just for the individual but for inspiring countless others. Such moments serve as a reminder of how crucial it is to celebrate and honor those who strive to break barriers. Uttarakhand’s recognition will remain etched in my heart as a symbol of encouragement and appreciation.”
When I returned from Paris, after representing the country in Olympic 2024, I was met with an unexpected void—there was no official reception from my home State to mark the moment. It was disheartening, to say the least, she said.
Meanwhile, commenting on the role assigned to her in the event (38th National Games), she stated that the event is celebrated nationwide, representing a monumental opportunity to showcase the spirit of sportsmanship and the beauty of the country. “Over the past 28 years, I have dedicated myself to the development and promotion of water sports across India. The experience and technical expertise I have gained will be fully utilized to ensure the success of this championship. I am committed to providing all necessary technical inputs to design a roadmap for the development of water sports in Uttarakhand and beyond,” she said.
Uttarakhand, with its abundant and picturesque waterfronts, holds immense potential for water sports development. She expressed confidence that hosting these games will not only elevate the state’s reputation but also inspire young athletes to explore the world of water sports.
“Let us work together to make this championship a resounding success and a proud moment for India. Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility,” the “Indian Water Queen” said.