In a significant boost for sports infrastructure in Kodagu, the Karnataka government has given its green signal for the construction of a state-of-the-art synthetic athletic track at Madikeri's General Thimayya District Stadium. The project, valued at a substantial Rs 9 crore, marks a major investment in the region's athletic facilities.
Major Infrastructure Push for Kodagu Sports
The announcement was made by MLA Manthar Gowda during the inauguration of the Kodagu district-level state government employees' sports meet and cultural competition on Friday. Gowda revealed that an initial sum of Rs 20 lakh has already been released to kickstart the athletic track project.
In a parallel development, the government has also approved the building of a mini indoor, semi-indoor synthetic basketball court at the same stadium complex. This facility is estimated to cost Rs 150 lakh (Rs 1.5 crore), with an identical initial release of Rs 20 lakh made for its commencement.
Encouragement for a Sports-Power District
Addressing the gathering, MLA Manthar Gowda emphasized the government's commitment to fostering sports. He stated that the government provides great encouragement to sporting activities and expressed confidence that Kodagu district, already renowned for producing sporting talent, should leverage this infrastructure to achieve even greater heights.
The event was jointly organized by the district administration, zilla panchayat, the youth empowerment and sports department, and the state government employees' association.
Plans for Government Employees' Building
Beyond sports infrastructure, Gowda also disclosed progress on a dedicated building for state government employees in Madikeri. He confirmed that land has been identified for this purpose. The required grant is expected to be sourced either from the chief minister's special grant or the MLA's fund.
He advised the district unit of the State Government Employees' Association to prepare a detailed blueprint and submit a cost estimate to expedite the process.
Celebrating Sporting and Cultural Talent
The sports meet and cultural competition saw active participation from government employees across the district. MC Arun Kumar, president of the State Govt Employees' District Association, noted that this event is organized annually to promote camaraderie and talent among staff.
The occasion was also used to felicitate individuals who have excelled in various sports disciplines, including hockey, acknowledging their contributions to Kodagu's rich sporting legacy.
Prominent officials present at the event included Assistant Commissioner Nitin Chakki, Assistant Director of the Youth Empowerment and Sports Department VT Vismay, and the director of the association, S Honnegowda.
