Nara Lokesh Inaugurates State-of-the-Art NTR Sports Stadium in Tirupati
In a significant boost to sports development in Andhra Pradesh, IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh inaugurated the newly constructed NTR sports stadium at Gollavanigunta near Tirupati on Wednesday. The stadium, established at a substantial cost of ₹10 crore, represents a major investment in athletic infrastructure for the region.
Modern Facilities and Capacity
The flood-lit stadium is equipped with five dedicated practice pitches and courts designed for multiple sports disciplines. These include facilities for volleyball, kabaddi, kho-kho, and ball badminton, catering to a diverse range of athletes and enthusiasts. The pavilion at the stadium boasts an impressive capacity to accommodate up to 5,000 visitors, ensuring ample space for spectators during events and competitions.
Interaction with Sporting Icons
Following the inauguration ceremony, Minister Lokesh engaged in meaningful discussions with several prominent sports personalities. He interacted with cricketing legend Mithali Raj, Olympic medalist shuttler P V Sindhu, weightlifting champion Karanam Malleswari, athlete Yarraji Jyothi, badminton star Kidambi Srikanth, and visually challenged cricketers Ajay Kumar Reddy and P Karuna Kumari. These interactions highlighted the government's commitment to engaging with athletes across various sports and abilities.
Vision for Rayalaseema and 90-Day Action Plan
During the event, Minister Lokesh articulated a bold vision to transform Rayalaseema into the "sports hub of south India". To realize this ambitious goal, he announced a comprehensive ‘90-day action plan’ aimed at prioritizing the creation and enhancement of sports infrastructure throughout the state. This strategic initiative underscores the government's dedication to fostering athletic talent and promoting sports culture across Andhra Pradesh.
The inauguration of the NTR sports stadium marks a pivotal step in advancing sports infrastructure in Tirupati and the broader Rayalaseema region. With its modern amenities and the government's proactive plans, the stadium is poised to become a central venue for nurturing future sporting champions and hosting competitive events.
