Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has lauded the 'Notun Kuri Sports' initiative, describing it as a timely and vital step toward identifying and nurturing promising young athletes from the grassroots level across Bangladesh.

In a message issued on Friday on the eve of the program, the Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction with the Ministry of Youth and Sports for organizing the nationwide event aimed at discovering sporting talent among children and youth.

He noted that the initiative draws inspiration from the rich legacy of the traditional “Notun Kuri” program, which has historically played a significant role in developing children’s talents across various fields.

"Sports is no longer merely a form of recreation; it is now globally recognised as a respectable and lucrative profession,” the Premier stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to establishing sports as a dignified career path and ensuring financial security for the nation's athletes.

The Prime Minister explained that under this new program, talented boys and girls aged between 12 and 14 will be identified from across the country and provided with a structured, professional platform to develop their full potential.

Emphasizing the role of sports in nation-building, the Prime Minister highlighted that it is crucial for fostering a healthy, disciplined, and skilled generation.

He added that active participation in sports serves as a safeguard for the youth against drug abuse, social degradation, and excessive dependence on digital devices.

He expressed optimism that the 'Notun Kuri Sports' initiative would instill essential values such as discipline, leadership, fraternity, and team spirit in its participants, ultimately contributing to the foundation of a strong and progressive nation.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister noted that the government has already initiated support for emerging talents through state-sponsored sports scholarships and world-class training facilities at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan (BKSP).

He shared his hope that with proper training and nurturing, these young athletes would soon emerge as national stars and represent Bangladesh with distinction on the international stage.

Concluding his message, Tarique Rahman expressed confidence that the program would bring about sustainable and transformative change in the country’s sports sector through the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders.

He wished the 'Notun Kuri Sports' program every success.