Why in the News?

• Uttarakhand is preparing to host the 38th National Games, set to begin on 28th January 2025.
• The 38th National Games will be the largest sporting event in Uttarakhand’s history, with athletes from across India competing in 35 sports.

Key Points:

=> The State has unveiled three significant symbols in line with the event: the logo, the mascot Mauli, and the torch Tejaswini.

=> These symbols reflect the essence of Uttarakhand’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unwavering spirit, while marking the State’s 25th anniversary with pride and celebration.

=> This sporting event promises to be not just a grand competition, but also a unique opportunity for Uttarakhand to showcase its cultural and natural identity to the nation.

The Logo:

=> The official logo of the 38th National Games is a harmonious blend of Uttarakhand’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

=> It prominently features:

• The Himalayan Peaks: Representing the State’s grandeur and resilience.
• The Himalayan Monal: Highlighting biodiversity and cultural pride.
• The Ganga River: A sacred symbol of purity and spirituality central to Uttarakhand’s identity.

The Mascot Mauli:

=> Named after Uttarakhand’s State bird, the Himalayan Monal, the mascot Mauli embodies the natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and enduring spirit of the region.

=> The Himalayan Monal, known for its dazzling colors and grace, is a symbol of Uttarakhand’s pristine environment, from its majestic mountains to its lush forests.

=> Mauli reflects the determination, energy, and perseverance of the people of Uttarakhand and mirrors the same qualities that athletes bring to the games.

=> By choosing Mauli as the mascot, the State celebrates its harmonious connection with nature and the resilience of its people, making it a fitting emblem of the National Games.

The Torch Tejaswini:

=> The official torch of the 38th National Games, named Tejaswini, represents power, inspiration, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

=> The torch will carry the flame of sportsmanship and competition across Uttarakhand, uniting the State and the nation in the spirit of the games.

=> Designed to reflect the grandeur of Uttarakhand’s mountains and the vibrant energy of its people.

=> Tejaswini is a testament to the State’s commitment to excellence and unity.

=> Its radiant light symbolizes a bright future for Uttarakhand’s athletes, inspiring them to achieve greatness while fostering a sense of pride and togetherness.

Himalayan Monal:

• The Himalayan Monal, also known as the Impeyan monal, Impeyan pheasant, is a bird in the pheasant family, Phasianidae.
• It is the state bird of Uttarakhand.
• It has been selected as the mascot for the 38th National games that were held in Uttarakhand in 2018.
• Himalayan monal is a Schedule – I bird, according to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.