In a significant push for sports development, the state of Andhra Pradesh has been granted a substantial financial allocation of Rs 60.76 crore by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. This funding, sanctioned under the central government's flagship Khelo India scheme, is earmarked for the creation and upgrade of modern sports infrastructure across several key locations in the state.
Major Projects in Chittoor and Srikakulam Districts
A major portion of the funds will be utilized for constructing large-scale indoor sports facilities. The ministry has sanctioned Rs 14 crore each for two major projects. One is for a multipurpose indoor hall at the NTR Sports Complex in Kuppam, located in Chittoor district. The second allocation of an equal amount is for a similar indoor hall at Pathrunivalasa in the Srikakulam district. Both facilities are designed to be spacious, with a hall size measuring 60 meters by 40 meters.
Furthermore, a sum of Rs 13.76 crore has been dedicated to the construction of a multipurpose stadium at Aren-2 in VL Puram, Rajamahendravaram. This stadium will also feature dimensions of 60 meters by 40 meters, providing a versatile space for various sporting events and activities.
Vijayawada's IGMC Stadium Set for a Major Transformation
The most substantial single allocation under this tranche of funds is for the iconic Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) Stadium in Vijayawada. The stadium is set to undergo a comprehensive transformation into a world-class multipurpose sports centre with an infusion of Rs 19 crore.
The development plan for the IGMC Stadium is extensive and includes several high-quality upgrades:
- Construction of a modern 400-meter, eight-lane synthetic athletics track.
- Installation of high-mast floodlight towers reaching 25 meters in height to facilitate night events.
- Development of an artificial grass football field.
- Building new courts for tennis and basketball.
- Provision of dedicated floodlighting for the existing 200-meter track and the new basketball and tennis courts within the stadium premises.
Boosting Grassroots Sports and Athlete Development
This massive investment is a clear indicator of the government's focus on strengthening the sports ecosystem at the grassroots level. The creation of modern infrastructure in districts like Chittoor, Srikakulam, and East Godavari, along with the upgrade in Vijayawada, will provide local athletes with access to international-standard facilities for training and competition.
The projects are expected to nurture talent, promote a culture of fitness, and host larger sporting events, ultimately putting Andhra Pradesh firmly on the national sports map. The development under the Khelo India scheme is a strategic move to build a robust pipeline for identifying and grooming future champions from the state.
