Haryana CM Affirms Government's Dedication to Sports Promotion
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Synopsis
On April 18, Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini emphasized the government's commitment to promoting sports as a vital aspect of life. He announced efforts such as mandatory sports in schools, significant financial support for athletes, and the establishment of sports nurseries to nurture young talent.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory sports education in schools.
- Medical insurance of Rs 20 lakh for players.
- Creation of 550 new posts in Sports Department.
- Rs 593 crore in cash rewards for athletes.
- 1,489 sports nurseries training 37,225 athletes.
Chandigarh, April 18 (NationPress) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini declared on Friday that the government is dedicated to encouraging sports not merely as a career pathway but also as an integral part of life. He emphasized that sports will be made mandatory at the school level throughout the state to guarantee a holistic development of both physical and mental health from a young age.
A resolution has been passed to extend a medical insurance coverage of Rs 20 lakh to each athlete. The Chief Minister made these remarks while inaugurating the third All India Shiv Kumar Smriti Basketball Competition in Kiloi village, located in the Rohtak district, which is a stronghold of former two-time Congress Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.
During the event, he announced a funding of Rs 21 lakh for improvements at the Shiv Kumar Smriti Stadium, the establishment of a Mahila Chaupal in the village, and pledged that various other local requests will be addressed promptly.
While paying homage to Shiv Kumar, the Chief Minister noted that his legacy continues to motivate endeavors towards national growth.
“This stadium (Shri Shiv Kumar Memorial Stadium) symbolizes his vision, aimed at uniting and empowering society through sports,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister mentioned the implementation of the 'Haryana Utkrisht Khiladi Seva Niyam -- 2021' to foster sports and secure employment for athletes.
Under this initiative, 550 new positions have been created in the Sports Department, with 224 sportspersons already appointed to government roles.
This policy also offers reservations for athletes in direct recruitment for Class-I to Class-III positions.
“Haryana is the first state in India to provide the highest cash rewards to medalists. To date, cash prizes totaling Rs 593 crore have been awarded to athletes in the state. Moreover, honorariums are being granted to 298 athletes in acknowledgment of their exceptional performances.”
The Chief Minister stated that the government is committed to discovering and cultivating sports talent from a young age. Currently, 1,489 sports nurseries are operational across the state, training 37,225 budding athletes.
To provide financial support to young athletes, those aged between eight and 14 years in these nurseries receive a monthly stipend of Rs 1,500, while those between 15 and 19 years get Rs 2,000 per month.
He added that scholarships are being awarded to students excelling in state, national, and international competitions.
Since 2014, a total of Rs 53.45 crore in scholarships has been awarded to over 29,000 students.
Additionally, the Sports Department has provided sports equipment to 15,634 players.
