SPORTS

Karachi to Host 35th National Games from December 6-13, CM Murad Ali Shah Announces

Karachi will host the 35th National Games from December 6-13, following a postponement from May. CM Murad Ali Shah announced the dates, outlining plans for infrastructure upgrades and athlete welfare.
2025-05-09
Karachi to Host 35th National Games from December 6-13, CM Murad Ali Shah Announces

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced that Karachi will now host the 35th National Games from December 6 to 13, 2025, after the event was postponed from its original dates in May due to unforeseen circumstances. The announcement was made following a meeting between the Chief Minister and a high-level delegation of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) at CM House.

The National Games were initially scheduled to take place from May 1-9, but were postponed due to logistical issues, as confirmed in an official letter issued by the Sindh Olympic Association earlier in April.

Commitment to World-Class Infrastructure

During the meeting, CM Murad Ali Shah expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity to host the prestigious event and pledged full support to ensure that the games are held to international standards. He directed relevant departments to provide all necessary facilities for athletes, including training, medical care, transportation, and modern infrastructure.

CM Murad further announced the construction of a new swimming pool and the procurement of modern electronic timing and scoring systems, crucial for the smooth operation of the games. The Sindh government will work closely with the POA to ensure all logistical and infrastructural needs are met.

Partnership with the POA

In a step towards strengthening cooperation, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the POA, the Sindh Government, and the Sindh Olympic Association. This MoU will establish a coordinated framework for the successful organization of the event, with the aim of enhancing both athlete welfare and institutional coordination.

CM Murad emphasized that the event is not just about competition but also about fostering young talent and promoting broader interest in sports throughout Sindh and Pakistan.

POA’s Support and Enthusiasm

POA President Arif Saeed briefed the CM on the history of the National Games, expressing gratitude for the Sindh government’s commitment to the event’s development. He highlighted the excitement among athletes nationwide, with the rescheduled games generating fresh enthusiasm and anticipation.

This initiative will mark a milestone for athlete welfare and institutional coordination,” said CM Murad, adding that the games will serve as a springboard for nurturing young talent in Pakistan.

Ongoing Preparations

The meeting also included a detailed briefing from Sports Secretary Aleem Lashari, who outlined the current status of preparations for the games. Key elements discussed included logistics, venue readiness, and athlete accommodations.

Also in attendance were Ms. Fatima Lakhani (Senior Vice President of the POA), Khalid Mehmood (Secretary General of the POA), Sindh Secretary Ahmed Ali Rajput, Principal Secretary to CM Agha Wasif, and other senior officials from the Sindh Government.

A Landmark Event for Pakistan’s Sports History

The 35th National Games will provide a significant platform for athletes to showcase their talents, with the games expected to set a new benchmark for sports development in Pakistan. The event will bring together athletes from across the country, with expectations for record-breaking performances and a unified spirit of sportsmanship.

Both the Sindh Government and POA have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing athlete performance, ensuring the games are a landmark event in Pakistan’s sporting history.