India asserted its regional sporting supremacy with a medal haul of 175, including 90 gold, as the 11th South Asian Games drew to a close at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday.
Bangladesh President Zillur Rahman, Army chief General M Abdul Mubin declared the 12-day closed after a colourful ceremony.
In yet another commanding performance, India reigned supreme for the 11th time on the trot taking the lion's share of medals (90 gold, 55 silver and 30 bronze).
A total of 158 gold medals were on the offer, with Pakistan (19-25-36) and hosts Bangladesh (18-23-56) finishing second and third on the medals tally.
In a dazzling ceremony featuring 12,000 children, the SAG curtains were closed as Gen Mubin, who is also the Bangladesh Olympic Association president, handed over the flag and torch to his Indian counterpart Suresh Kalmadi who was accompanied by IOA secretary general Randhir Singh.
India will host the 12th edition of the Games.
Champions India had fielded 331 athletes at the South Asian Games.
"This marked the end of a golden chapter in history of Bangladesh. The Games spread friendship and peace among the eight participating countries. I hereby declare the 11th South Asian Games closed," Mubin said.
A two-and-half hour long closing ceremony programme began with a tribal dance.
The ceremony ended with an aquatic laser show and stunning display of fireworks.
© 2024 Rediff.com -