What Did MoS Raksha Khadse Discover During Her Review of SAI Trivandrum?

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), July 10 (NationPress) - The Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Nikhil Khadse, performed a thorough evaluation of the amenities at the Sports Authority of India, Regional Centre at LNCPE, Thiruvananthapuram, while inaugurating the newly extended medical centre on Thursday.

She was warmly welcomed by Dr. G. Kishore, Principal of LNCPE & Regional Head of SAI Regional Centre during her visit.

After a ceremonial reception and homage to Rani Lakshmibai, Khadse officially opened the Medical Centre Building, which enhances SAI LNCPE's capability to provide athlete-centered medical services and performance support.

The formal ceremony in the Assembly Hall began with a welcoming speech by Dr. Kishore, followed by a presentation on the Medical Centre extension from C. Dhandapani, Director of SAI RC.

Dr. Kishore also honored the Minister during the event. In her speech, MoS Khadse emphasized the critical role of medical infrastructure in bolstering athlete health and performance. She mentioned that the new centre combines medical services, recovery facilities, and sports science, offering comprehensive care all in one place.

She characterized the Sports Authority of India (SAI) as a premier institution in sports advancement. The new expansion, she noted, enhances SAI's capacity to provide scientific and structured support to athletes. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Ravi N.S, Director of SAI LNCPE.

A notable aspect of the event was the recognition of distinguished Indian sports figures: S. Gopinath IPS (Retd.) – Former Indian volleyball international; Saji Thomas – Arjuna Awardee & rowing coach, NCOE Alleppey; and Omana Kumari – Arjuna Awardee and former volleyball player.

Additionally, outstanding performers from SAI NCOE were recognized: Subha Venkatesan, Jisna Mathew, and Kunja Ranjitha – gold in 4x400m relay at the 26th Asian Athletics Championship 2025; Nithya Gandhe, Abinaya Rajarajan, and Sneha S.S. – silver in 4x100m relay; Rince Joseph and Manu T.S. – silver in Men’s 4x400m relay; Niraimathi J. – Bronze in Cycling at the Asian Track Cycling Championship; and volleyball and para-taekwondo athlete Luv Gocher – Selected for international competitions.

The Minister also initiated a plantation drive under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ campaign, planting 1000 saplings across SAI STCs under the LNCPE Regional Centre, fostering environmental sustainability.

Her visit included inspecting key facilities such as the 300-bed girls’ hostel, sports grounds, gym, and dining halls. The Minister observed demonstrations in Kalaripayattu, Taekwondo, Yoga, and Volleyball at the Multipurpose Hall, highlighting the variety of disciplines supported at the centre.

Minister Khadse also assessed the ongoing work of the E-Khel Pathshala initiative, providing structured online sports training at the grassroots level. She participated in a high-level meeting with coaches, faculty, and sports science experts to evaluate current programmes and priorities.

The visit concluded with a stop at the Trivandrum Golf Club, adding a cultural touch to a day centered on infrastructure, training, and athlete development. This visit underscores SAI's commitment to nurturing sporting talent throughout the southern region.