Sports Minister Maken promises more training facilities

April 25th, 2011 - 6:10 pm ICT by ANI  

New Delhi, Apr 25 (ANI): Elated over the response to the ‘Come and Play’ plan of the Sports Authority of India, Sports Minister Ajay Maken has assured further assistance if the demand for sports training increases.

Talking to reporters here, Maken said assistance in infrastructure and training would be increased if the demand soars.

“Now the main aim for us is to have as many people as possible. Looking at the overall capacity of the stadia we have, and we are also looking up how to scale it up to the maximum, and also how to have more coaches if required,” he added.

He said that after summer, tie-ups with local and government schools would be made in order to boost the spirit of sports and optimum utilization of stadiums.

Maken said the official constructors of the sports venues, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) would be given the charge for maintenance of the venues, but private agencies would also be considered if they fail.

“The maintenance of these stadia is something which is a challenge for us and I think we will be able to do that. First of all, the first preference or priority would be given to CPWD because they have constructed the stadiums. If suppose they fail or they are unable to, then we will look for other options; other options are also not ruled out,” he added.

He further said a sum of 40 million dollars has already been issued in advance to the CPWD for maintenance of the venues.

The ‘Come and Play’ plan would allow budding sports enthusiasts to access specialized training from national-level coaches at the city’s stadiums and training centres.

Professional training for sports like athletics, swimming, cricket, hockey, soccer, volleyball, table tennis, wrestling, boxing, gymnastics, basketball, weightlifting, cycling, archery are being made available at different venues used during the 19th Commonwealth Games.

The charges for the trainings range from Rs 75 to 500 per month. (ANI)

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