PANJIM: The logo for 37th National Games to be held in Goa in October-November embodying Goan values and culture was unveiled by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant at Shyama Prasad Stadium, Taleigao on Sunday.
The logo embodies the map of Goa, said Sports Minister Govind Gaude.
Attempts to find the name of the creator of the logo as well as the cost implications were unsuccessful as no one seemed to have the details. A senior executive said everything was kept close to the chest and no one in the know was ready to speak. The senior executive said it is possible the contract was awarded to a company based out of Goa for an exorbitant cost. Some stated that there were six presentations made after the tender was advertised.
Dr Sawant said the State was ready to host the Games and would now be open for sports tourism. Goa would participate, winning medals not being a big issue, added Dr Sawant.
Amitabh Sharma, IOC’s Executive Council Member delivered a speech from PT Usha, IOC President, who could not make it to Goa. She said she hoped to see new records and hoped the sporting extravaganza would inspire the future generation of sportsmen and women.
Kalyan Chaubey, AIFF President said in later years, Goa would be seen as an example of how it could be done. He said with 43 disciplines it would be the biggest National Games ever to be held.
Finally, NIshith Pramanik, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports said: “ We made the right decision to hold it in Goa.”
The expectations of looking for a spectular logo were belied as compared to the extravagant function.
