CM Cup 2026: G Parameshwara Inaugurates Mysuru Dasara Sports Meet
Karnataka Sports Minister G Parameshwara inaugurates the Dasara Sports Meet-CM Cup 2026 in Mysuru, promising better jobs and prize money for athletes.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister G Parameshwara officially kicked off the state-level Dasara Sports Meet-CM Cup 2026 at the Chamundi Vihar Indoor Stadium in Mysuru. Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister emphasized that this event is far more than a mere competition; it serves as a vital platform for athletes to showcase their immense talent to the world.
Organized by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports alongside the Karnataka Sports Authority, the meet is a cornerstone of the grand Dasara celebrations. Parameshwara lauded the organizers for executing the event on such a massive scale, noting that the sports meet has become an integral part of Karnataka's rich sporting culture.
A Legacy from the Vijayanagara Empire
The Minister highlighted the deep historical roots of the Mysuru Dasara, tracing its sporting traditions back to the Vijayanagara Empire. During the Navaratri celebrations of that era, sports such as wrestling and swordsmanship were actively encouraged to nurture talent. This tradition was carried forward by the Mysuru rulers and has since evolved into the modern, highly organized Dasara Sports Meet seen today.
This year's edition is particularly significant, featuring 26 different sporting disciplines. Athletes from every district across the state have converged in Mysuru to compete, making the 2026 edition a landmark moment in the history of the festivities.
Personal Connection and Life Lessons
Sharing a personal anecdote, G Parameshwara revealed that he is a product of the Mysuru Dasara Sports Meet himself. "I too am a sportsperson shaped by the Mysuru Dasara Sports Meet. Participating in this competition gave me the opportunity to compete at the university level and later move on to national and international competitions," he shared, expressing his pride in seeing the next generation take the field.
He went on to offer words of wisdom to the participants, noting that sports instill discipline, confidence, and the resilience to face life's challenges. He reminded the athletes that while victory is sweet, defeat is a natural part of the journey that provides the determination to return stronger.
Boosting Careers: Jobs and Prize Money
A major highlight of the Minister's address was the government's commitment to the welfare of sportspersons. Recognizing the sacrifices athletes make, the state government is prioritizing job reservations and enhanced prize money to ensure a secure future for champions.
- Job Reservations: Parameshwara noted that while 3% reservation was previously provided in the Police Department, the government has now issued an order providing 2% reservation for sportspersons in all government departments.
- Increased Incentives: To honor excellence, international medallists are being awarded significant cash prizes, including Rs 35 lakh for Gold, Rs 25 lakh for Silver, and Rs 15 lakh for Bronze.
- Infrastructure: The government is also focusing on improving sports infrastructure across the state to nurture talent from the grassroots level.
The Minister concluded by stating that the government's goal is to ensure that those who excel in sports are never forced to struggle for employment, allowing them to make sports a lifelong professional pursuit.