New Delhi: The Union government on Tuesday launched sports projects worth Rs120 crore across the country. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya virtually laid foundation stones for six major infrastructure projects and inaugurated two athlete support facilities.
The projects aim to create world-class and athlete-friendly infrastructure. They cover North-Eastern, Eastern, and central regions, ensuring balanced and inclusive development.
Six projects under the Khelo India Scheme cost a total of Rs82 crore. They include upgrading a hockey turf in Bengaluru, building a multi-purpose hall in Patiala, laying athletic tracks in Bhopal, Guwahati, and Jalpaiguri, and constructing a judo hall in Bhopal, according to an official statement.
Mandaviya also inaugurated two completed facilities at NS NIS, Patiala, worth Rs38 crore. They include a central kitchen and dining hall to improve athlete nutrition and an Integrated Sports Science Centre for training, rehabilitation, and performance analysis.
Dr Mandaviya highlighted Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) role in managing and maintaining assets. He said the facilities must be well maintained, fully used, and, where possible, commercially leveraged.
The minister added that all projects will be closely monitored. SAI will conduct monthly reviews, while he will oversee quarterly reviews to ensure timely completion and optimal use.
He noted that the Khelo India Mission, announced by the Union finance minister, provides a framework to strengthen sports infrastructure. Dr Mandaviya said the government aims to place India among the top sporting nations by 2036.
The minister also highlighted a Rs500 crore allocation for sports goods manufacturing. It aims to boost domestic production and support a self-reliant, competitive sports ecosystem.
He emphasized that sport is now a profession. Talent identification and nurturing must be strengthened to help athletes progress from grassroots to elite levels.
