Udaipur: The newly elected President of the Rajasthan Wrestling Association, Rajeev Datta, visited Udaipur on Saturday for the first time since assuming office. Datta, who holds a special privilege as a close associate of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, was warmly welcomed by the Udaipur District Wrestling Association and various sports organizations.
The grand reception was held at the Municipal Corporation Town Hall, where prominent figures like former Mayor Paras Singvi, Devanarayan Dhabai, District Sports Officer Mahesh Paliwal, and several representatives from local sports associations, including cricket, volleyball, basketball, chess, and others, honored Datta.
Earlier in the day, a large vehicle rally passed through the city’s main streets, where citizens enthusiastically greeted him. The local dignitaries at the Circuit House also extended their warm congratulations. Cooperation Minister Gautam Dack also wished him well for his new responsibilities.
**Revamping Wrestling in Rajasthan**
In a press meeting, Rajeev Datta shared his vision for the development of wrestling in Rajasthan and efforts to enhance the growth of players. He outlined various initiatives to promote wrestling across the state, including providing modern facilities like mats at the local level, ensuring better nutrition, and offering platforms for players to showcase their talent at national and international levels.
Datta emphasized that district-level wrestling competitions would be organized regularly, enabling talented players from Rajasthan to make their mark on the national and international stage, just like players from Haryana. He also directed district wrestling associations and state officials to coordinate and work together effectively.
During his visit, Datta also visited the famous Eklingji Temple and the Shri Nathji Temple in Nathdwara to offer his prayers and seek blessings.
**Awarding Gold Medalist Sonia Od**
At the Circuit House, Rajeev Datta honored Sonia Od, a gold medalist at the National Federation Championship held in Chandigarh. Upon learning about her financial struggles, Datta presented her with a cheque of Rs. 51,000 as encouragement from the Rajasthan Wrestling Association. He wished Sonia a bright future and expressed confidence that she would achieve even greater milestones in the coming years.