New Delhi, August 27, 2026

External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar visited Kendriya Vidyalaya Andrews Ganj in New Delhi on Thursday and interacted with young sportspersons. His meeting with Rudransh Prabhakar, ranked third in India in the Boys’ Under-11 squash category, remained the main focus of the visit.

Jaishankar spent time with Rudransh and saw the medals and trophies won by the young player. He also interacted with other students and motivated them to work hard and excel in sports.

The interaction reflected the growing attention being given to young talent under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s wider sports outreach. Initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India have sought to promote fitness, identify talent and create better sporting opportunities for children.

Jaishankar has a personal association with squash. A keen player himself, he has often spoken about the importance of physical fitness, mental strength and a competitive spirit.

In December 2020, he laid the foundation stone for six world-class squash courts at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. The Rs 5.52-crore facility was inaugurated in June 2022.

These were the first squash courts opened by the Sports Authority of India at any of its centres in the country, according to PIB. The facility was developed to bring young talent, trained coaches and modern infrastructure together.

Jaishankar had then recalled that he began playing squash at the age of 24. He said a player needed good facilities, a capable coach and a strong desire to play. He had also stressed that sport should not remain a privilege. Better access to courts and coaching could help more young players realise their potential.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly called for taking sports directly to the youth. Khelo India has expanded grassroots training through academies, sports centres and competitions across the country.

Jaishankar’s interaction with Rudransh and other students carried this message forward. Rudransh’s All India Rank 3 also reflects how early training, discipline and regular competition can help young talent rise at the national level.

The meeting came as squash gains greater attention ahead of its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles Games in 2028.