Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday emphasized the state government's unwavering commitment to providing high-quality infrastructure for athletes, aiming to boost India's medal tally at the Olympics and other international competitions. During a visit to Kurukshetra University, the CM highlighted ongoing efforts to nurture sporting talent across Haryana.
Inauguration of World-Class Sports Facilities
Chief Minister Saini, along with Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam, inaugurated a state-of-the-art synthetic hockey ground constructed at a cost of approximately ₹5.50 crore under the Government of India's Khelo India Scheme. This facility is designed to offer emerging hockey players world-class conditions to refine their skills and compete at higher levels.
Foundation Stone Laid for Swimming Pool Project
In addition to the hockey ground, the chief minister laid the foundation stone for an all-weather swimming pool project, which will be built with an investment of ₹8 crore under the same Khelo India Scheme. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to strengthen sports infrastructure in Haryana.
Interaction with Athletes and University Officials
The chief minister interacted with athletes at a program organized by the Kurukshetra University administration at the university's sports complex. He expressed confidence that with enhanced facilities, Haryana's athletes would continue to bring glory to the nation by winning more medals on global platforms.
Saini stated, "To nurture hidden sporting talent in the state, the government has established sports nurseries along with other sports centres. The government also ensured world-class facilities for athletes, as a result of which Haryana players are bringing the highest number of medals for the country."
Details on Funding and Future Projects
Vice-Chancellor of Kurukshetra University, Prof Somnath Sachdeva, welcomed the chief minister and provided details on the synthetic hockey astroturf. He mentioned that a total budget of ₹10 crore was allocated by the Ministry of Sports, Government of India. Out of this, ₹5.50 crore was utilized for the hockey ground, while ₹4.50 crore is earmarked for constructing a multipurpose indoor sports hall in the future.
Commitment to Sports Promotion
After the inauguration, Chief Minister Saini and Sports Minister Gautam participated in a ceremonial stroke on the new synthetic turf, symbolizing the government's active involvement in promoting sports. Saini reiterated, "This synthetic hockey ground will now provide emerging hockey players with world-class facilities to hone their skills. Haryana government is committed to promoting sports and strengthening sports infrastructure."
The initiatives underscore Haryana's role as a leading contributor to India's sports achievements, with the state's athletes consistently delivering top performances. The government's focus on developing infrastructure through schemes like Khelo India aims to sustain this momentum and inspire future generations of athletes.
