Modi calls for sports policy in Gujarat

"Gujarat will lead the country in implementing the sports policy and 'Khel-Mahakumbh' is a step forward," he said.

The ongoing Khel-Mahakumbh, organised by Gujarat government, has seen a record number of 21 lakh sportspersons having registered their names in about 21 different games in this year's event.

"Sports is all important in the development of human beings, but nowadays grounds are seen empty because of the burden of education, which is a matter of concern," Modi said.

He was speaking while inaugurating Saurashtra Cricket Association's (SCA) Stadium near Khandheri on Rajkot-Jamnagar highway, built at a cost of Rs 75 crore.

Modi also emphasised on the need to construct a multi-purpose sports complex.

"Constructing a cricket stadium is not enough to attract children and youths towards the sports activities, but constructing a multi-purpose sports complex is the demand of time," he said.

The SCA stadium will host its maiden international cricket match when England will play against India on January 11 in the first of the five-match ODI series.

BCCI President N Srinivasan, Treasurer Ajay Shirke were also present at the function.