Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while interacting with young trainees, budding athletes and children at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre of Excellence in Anu, reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and supporting talented sportspersons.
He announced that a modern indoor stadium is being constructed at Nadaun at an estimated cost of around ₹125 crore. The facility, which is expected to be inaugurated later this year, will provide international-standard infrastructure for 14 sports disciplines, including swimming, badminton, volleyball and tennis.
The Chief Minister said the state government has introduced substantial cash incentives for athletes winning medals in international competitions. Under the scheme, Asian Games gold medallists will receive ₹3 crore, silver medallists ₹2 crore, and bronze medallists up to ₹1.5 crore. He added that similar lucrative rewards are being extended to athletes performing at the Olympic Games and other international events.
He further highlighted that soon after assuming office, the government increased the diet allowance for sportspersons and introduced provisions for air travel and AC train travel to facilitate their participation in competitions.
Sukhu also informed that adequate budgetary allocations are being made for the repair and renovation of the synthetic track at Anu to enhance training facilities.
During the interaction, young athletes engaged enthusiastically with the Chief Minister, expressing excitement and motivation at the opportunity to meet him. The event concluded on an encouraging note with renewed focus on nurturing sporting talent in the state.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
