30 -JULY-2025,02:36PM Hardeep Singh Puri, highlighted the remarkable contributions of India’s Oil & Gas Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) towards building a sporting culture in the country.
By extending sponsorships, building world-class infrastructure, and nurturing young talent, these PSUs have gone beyond their business responsibilities. They are shaping India’s sports ecosystem in a way that complements the government’s vision of making India a global sporting powerhouse. According to Hardeep Singh Puri, their efforts reflect both corporate responsibility and national duty.
Hardeep Singh Puri Applauds Oil & Gas PSUs for Nurturing Sports
Hardeep Singh Puri : Ministerial Recognition of Sports Development
During his address, Hardeep Singh Puri applauded the proactive role played by Oil & Gas PSUs such as ONGC, Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Oil India Limited in promoting sports. He stressed that these organizations are not just energy providers but also catalysts for nurturing sporting talent. From cricket and hockey to wrestling and athletics, PSU-backed athletes have consistently delivered stellar performances at both national and international platforms.
Hardeep Singh Puri : Beyond Energy: A Commitment to Nation-Building
Hardeep Singh Puri further stated that sports are not only about winning medals but also about instilling discipline, resilience, and teamwork among youth. By supporting sports, the Oil & Gas PSUs are contributing to the holistic development of society and strengthening the values that shape a progressive nation.
Hardeep Singh Puri : Key Contributions of Oil & Gas PSUs Towards Sports
Sponsorships and Athlete Support
One of the major ways PSUs contribute is by offering direct sponsorships to athletes. For instance, Indian Oil and ONGC have provided financial support, coaching, and job security to several international players. Hardeep Singh Puri pointed out that many Olympians and world champions trace their success back to the backing they received from these organizations.
Building Sports Infrastructure
According to Hardeep Singh Puri, PSUs have invested heavily in establishing sports academies, stadiums, and training facilities. These infrastructures not only provide a platform for budding athletes but also encourage grassroots participation, ensuring that talent from rural and small-town India is not overlooked.
Employment Opportunities for Athletes
PSUs have a long-standing tradition of offering jobs to sportspersons, ensuring their financial stability while they pursue their careers. Hardeep Singh Puri acknowledged that this practice has given athletes the confidence to train fearlessly without worrying about their future after retirement from competitive sports.
Hardeep Singh Puri on Sports as a Tool for Social Change
Inspiring Youth Participation
Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted that the support of PSUs has inspired millions of youngsters to take up sports professionally. By organizing tournaments, community-level events, and school programs, PSUs are actively motivating children to embrace fitness and athletics.
Promoting Women in Sports
In his remarks, Hardeep Singh Puri also drew attention to the increasing participation of women athletes supported by PSUs. Female sportspersons backed by these organizations have made India proud on global stages, proving that inclusivity in sports is not just a vision but a reality.
Future Vision for India’s Sporting Ecosystem
Aligning with Government Initiatives
Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized that the efforts of Oil & Gas PSUs align with flagship government programs like “Khelo India” and “Fit India Movement.” Together, these initiatives aim to transform India into a sporting nation by 2030, ensuring consistent Olympic success and fostering healthier lifestyles.
Creating Sustainable Sporting Models
Looking ahead, Hardeep Singh Puri urged PSUs to adopt sustainable models in sports promotion. He suggested partnerships with private enterprises, non-profits, and international bodies to scale up India’s sporting infrastructure and training programs.
Conclusion
The message delivered by Hardeep Singh Puri makes one thing clear: sports development is not solely the responsibility of athletes or government policies. Institutions like Oil & Gas PSUs are making path-finding contributions that directly impact the nation’s sporting future. By providing infrastructure, financial backing, and mentorship, they are ensuring that India continues to shine on the global sporting map.
As Hardeep Singh rightly pointed out, these contributions symbolize a greater vision—where business organizations act as guardians of national pride and social progress. If the current trajectory continues, India may soon transform into a sporting superpower, with Oil & Gas PSUs standing as silent but significant pillars of that journey.
