Has the SAI Governing Body Approved New Hockey Turf for Bengaluru and Laser Target Systems for Karni Singh Shooting Ranges?
Synopsis
In a significant boost for Indian sports, the SAI Governing Body has approved a new hockey turf for Bengaluru and modernized shooting targets for the Karni Singh Shooting Range, aiming to enhance athlete training and performance ahead of major competitions. This initiative reflects the commitment to developing a robust sports ecosystem in India.
Key Takeaways
New hockey turf approved for Bengaluru.
Replacement of electronic targets with laser systems at the Karni Singh Shooting Range.
Focus on athlete-centric infrastructure development.
Construction of multipurpose halls across various SAI centers.
Enhancement of training facilities for athletics .
New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) The Sports Authority of India (SAI)'s Governing Body (GB) has given the green light for a state-of-the-art Poligras Paris GT Zero hockey turf to be installed at the SAI Centre in Bengaluru. Additionally, the existing electronic targets at the Karni Singh Shooting Range will be replaced by advanced laser target systems. This decision was made during a meeting led by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi on Monday.
The GB also sanctioned a variety of other infrastructure development initiatives across the nation.
A significant highlight is the acquisition of the Poligras Paris GT Zero hockey turf for the SAI NSSC in Bengaluru, which functions as a training hub for both the Indian men's and women's national hockey teams, as reported by the Sports Ministry.
The meeting reached a consensus to upgrade the existing electronic shooting targets at the Karni Singh Shooting Range (KSSR) to laser target systems, providing enhanced training for India's top-tier and emerging shooters.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized, "The Indian sports ecosystem is evolving, and it is crucial to fortify it in every possible aspect to secure a promising future. The decisions made today are athlete-focused, aimed at providing the optimal infrastructure necessary for achieving our medal aspirations for the Commonwealth Games and Olympics."
Moreover, the GB approved the construction of three multipurpose halls at SAI NCOE Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (previously SAI Aurangabad), SAI NSNIS Patiala, and SAI LNCPE Trivandrum, enhancing training facilities and comprehensive athlete development.
The facility at SAI NCEO Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar will feature a specialized weather-proof boxing training area, strength & conditioning space, and dedicated indoor facilities for volleyball and badminton. The indoor training hall at SAI NSNIS Patiala is expected to elevate the training capacity and provide a modern, integrated environment for sports performance, science support, conditioning, and recovery.
India's premier institution for academics and high-performance training, LNCPE Trivandrum, will also receive a new multipurpose hall to ensure year-round uninterrupted training and academic activities.
The GB has also sanctioned the construction of a 400-meter, 8-lane synthetic athletics track at SAI STC Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, recognized as a vital center for athletics training, consistently yielding impressive performances at regional and national levels.
In addition to SAI STC Jalpaiguri, the GB has approved the installation of a new synthetic track at SAI CRC Bhopal, which has been instrumental in nurturing athletes across various sports disciplines, including two Olympians.
Point of View
The decisions made by the SAI Governing Body illustrate a proactive approach towards enhancing the infrastructure essential for athletes. These developments are pivotal, as they not only promise better training conditions but also signify India's commitment to nurturing its sporting talent. Such initiatives are crucial for competing on the global stage, especially in upcoming major events.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new hockey turf being installed in Bengaluru?
The new hockey turf is the Poligras Paris GT Zero, designed to provide a high-quality playing surface for training and competitions.
What upgrades are being made at the Karni Singh Shooting Range?
The existing electronic shooting targets will be replaced with advanced laser target systems to enhance training capabilities.
Who chaired the meeting for the SAI Governing Body?
The meeting was chaired by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.
What other infrastructure projects were approved?
In addition to the hockey turf and shooting range upgrades, the construction of multipurpose halls at various SAI centers was approved.
Where is the 400-meter synthetic athletics track being built?
A 400-meter, 8-lane synthetic athletics track is being constructed at SAI STC Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.
