Modinagar, Uttar Pradesh – July 8, 2025: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, officially launched the 2025 season of the ASMITA League, a pioneering initiative to empower women in sports. The event kicked off with an inspiring weightlifting competition featuring 42 young women across eight weight categories.
Inspiring Start with Weightlifting
The ASMITA League 2025 began on a powerful note. Young weightlifters from across India gathered in Modinagar to showcase their strength and determination. Over two days, they will compete in the Open category across eight different weight divisions.
Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu graced the inauguration. Her presence energized the athletes and added significance to the event. Minister Mandaviya called her a “perfect role model” for aspiring women in sports.
ASMITA’s Expanding Reach in 2025-26
The current financial year will witness a record-breaking number of leagues. 852 ASMITA leagues across 15 sports disciplines are planned. These leagues will engage over 70,000 female athletes from all states and union territories.
By comparison, the previous season hosted 550 leagues across 27 disciplines, benefiting more than 53,000 athletes. This year’s expansion reflects the government’s commitment to women in sports.
Leadership Voices: Mandaviya and Khadse
“Our mission is to create opportunities at every level and groom young talent,” said Dr. Mandaviya. He praised the fire in the eyes of the young athletes and expressed confidence in discovering “another Mirabai Chanu.”
Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, called ASMITA a pillar of India’s sports framework. She highlighted how women are breaking barriers and how the league will help realize India’s Olympic dreams.
Mirabai Chanu’s Powerful Message
Mirabai Chanu, a symbol of resilience and excellence, applauded the structured format of ASMITA. “We never had such clear pathways. ASMITA is a blessing for young girls who want to dream big,” she said.
Coming from a remote village in Manipur and now an Olympic medallist, Chanu’s journey represents what ASMITA aims to achieve—empowering women to break ceilings through sport.
More Than Just a League
ASMITA, or Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women, began in 2021 as part of the Khelo India initiative. It aims to make sports more inclusive and accessible for women.
The Sports Authority of India supports national federations in organizing these leagues across zonal and national levels. The initiative is gender-neutral and performance-driven, giving athletes of all age groups the stage to shine.
Budget and Policy Support
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the increase in the sports budget—now four times higher than a decade ago. He reiterated the government’s “360-degree commitment” to sports, backed by the Khelo Bharat Niti and aligned with the National Education Policy.
“We are reaching every corner of India to tell aspiring athletes—your time is now. We have created a roadmap for your success,” he added.
Key Features of ASMITA 2025
- 852 leagues across 15 disciplines planned
- More than 70,000 female athletes expected to participate
- Started in 2021 as part of the Khelo India Women’s League
- Structured progression from zonal to national level
- Support from Sports Authority of India and National Federations
A Vision for Future Champions
The presence of Mirabai Chanu and top government officials in Modinagar sends a clear message: India is serious about women in sports. From policy backing to emotional encouragement, the ecosystem is growing stronger every season.
With ASMITA’s expansion, India isn’t just creating opportunities—it’s shaping future champions. The dream of more Olympic medals and global recognition is becoming a structured pursuit, not just an aspiration.
