In a significant move to bolster sports development at the grassroots level, Bihar Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh announced on Saturday that the state government will establish 68 Eklavya schools dedicated to training talented young sportspersons. This initiative aims to provide quality sports education, particularly for children from rural and underprivileged backgrounds, with the schools scheduled to be operational by the end of the year.
Comprehensive Support for Emerging Athletes
During a programme organised in Patna under the Bihar Sports Mahasangram initiative, Minister Singh outlined a multi-faceted approach to nurturing sporting talent. She revealed that 72 talented sportspersons in the 10-16 age group from each district will soon get an opportunity to showcase their skills in Patna. These selected players will receive scholarships and sponsorships to support their training and development, enabling them to potentially bring glory to Bihar and the country on national and international platforms.
Institutionalising Sports at School Level
The programme brought together principals from both government and private schools across various districts of Bihar, with the objective of connecting schools with the vision, action plan, and structure of the Bihar Sports Mahasangram. This effort seeks to institutionalise sports at the school level, facilitating the early identification of talented athletes and creating a robust pipeline for future champions.
Minister Singh emphasised the importance of collaboration between the government and society in promoting sports. She stated, "The Bihar government is providing all possible support to athletes through infrastructure, policies, and schemes. We are committed to creating an environment where young talent can thrive and excel."
Developing Centres of Excellence Across Districts
In addition to the Eklavya schools, the minister announced that the state government is developing centres of excellence in every district. These centres will serve as hubs for advanced training and development, ensuring that athletes have access to top-notch facilities and coaching. Separate policies are being formulated for various sports to tailor support according to specific needs and requirements.
The Bihar Sports Mahasangram initiative represents a holistic approach to sports development, focusing on infrastructure, policy support, and early talent identification. By engaging school principals and integrating sports into the educational framework, the government aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that nurtures athletic potential from a young age.
This announcement marks a pivotal step in Bihar's efforts to enhance its sports landscape, with the Eklavya schools and district-level initiatives expected to transform the way young athletes are trained and supported in the state.
