Sports Minister Mandaviya Announces Quarterly Reviews for SAI Infrastructure Projects
In a significant move to enhance accountability and efficiency in sports infrastructure development, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that he will conduct quarterly reviews of projects under the Sports Authority of India (SAI). This initiative aims to ensure timely completion and proper maintenance of facilities, with a total investment of Rs 120 crore in new and upgraded projects across the country.
New Infrastructure Projects and Their Distribution
During a virtual ceremony, Mandaviya laid foundation stones and inaugurated various facilities, emphasizing a balanced and inclusive approach to sports infrastructure. The projects are strategically distributed, including in the North-Eastern and Eastern regions, to promote nationwide development. Key highlights include:
- A new synthetic hockey turf at Bengaluru's National Centre of Excellence, with completion targeted for March-April, adding to the existing two turfs used by national hockey teams.
- Construction of a multi-purpose hall in Patiala.
- Laying of synthetic athletic tracks in Bhopal, Guwahati, and Jalpaiguri.
- Construction of a multi-purpose judo hall in Bhopal.
According to SAI, all these projects are expected to be completed within the next three to four months, showcasing a push for rapid implementation.
Emphasis on Accountability and Timely Delivery
Mandaviya stressed the importance of continuous monitoring to avoid delays and ensure optimal use of resources. He stated, "It is both a request and suggestion that SAI should be carrying out monthly reviews while I would be reviewing progress every three months so that there is timely completion of infrastructure projects because we have lots to do." He highlighted that slow progress could hinder budget utilization and noted that while small villages have managed sports infrastructure, SAI projects present a unique challenge.
The minister added, "It is the Sports Ministry's responsibility to ensure best utilisation and maintenance. SAI has immense responsibility, and we can't afford to think small." This comes amid recent criticism of SAI for poor stadium conditions in Delhi and complaints from international athletes during the India Open badminton tournament about unkempt surroundings and inadequate facilities.
Inaugurated Facilities and Upgrades
In addition to the new projects, Mandaviya inaugurated two completed athlete support facilities at the NS NIS in Patiala, with a total cost of Rs 38 crore. These upgrades include:
- A centralized kitchen and food court-cum-dining hall to strengthen athlete nutrition services, capable of preparing 2,000 meals daily and accommodating 400 athletes at once.
- An Integrated Sports Science Centre and Conditioning Hall, which began construction in 2021, to enhance scientific training support, performance analysis, rehabilitation, and recovery for elite athletes.
Mandaviya emphasized the need for proper maintenance and commercial leverage of SAI assets, stating, "Many sports infrastructure projects are being developed across the country, but the facilities under SAI are our direct responsibility. These assets must be properly maintained, optimally utilised and, wherever possible, commercially leveraged so that public investment continues to create long-term value."
Funding and Broader Vision
The six foundation stone projects, with a cumulative cost of Rs 82 crore, are being implemented under the Khelo India Scheme, with additional support from SAI. Mandaviya linked these efforts to broader sports development, noting, "Sports today is a profession, and talent identification and nurturing must therefore be strengthened. The Government has to stay one step ahead in creating opportunities and systems that allow young talent to progress from grassroots to elite levels."
This comprehensive approach underscores the government's commitment to fostering a robust sports ecosystem in India, ensuring that infrastructure development aligns with athlete needs and national sports goals.
