In a major policy shift aimed at empowering sportspersons, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced significant relief for its appointed athletes. The state has clarified that the entire period athletes spend participating in national and international competitions, along with associated training camps and travel, will now be officially treated as 'duty'. This move effectively removes bureaucratic hurdles athletes previously faced in seeking formal permission for such engagements.
Ending Ambiguity for Sporting Champions
Finance Minister Suresh Khanna addressed the core issue that prompted this change. He stated that the existing 'International Medal Winner Direct Recruitment Rules-2022' lacked clear provisions regarding leave, creating difficulties for athletes when they needed to attend crucial events and camps. The newly introduced system provides a definitive solution.
"The newly introduced system ensures every appointed athlete's involvement in competitions or training programmes will be officially considered a duty, including travel days," Khanna explained. This administrative clarity is expected to have a profound impact, allowing athletes to focus entirely on their performance without worrying about official permissions or leave sanctions.
A Dual Boost for UP's Sports Infrastructure
In a related development to bolster sports in the state, the UP cabinet has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sports Authority of India (SAI). This agreement concerns the management, operation, and maintenance of the under-construction Dr Sampurnanand Sports Stadium in Sigra, Varanasi.
This stadium, which is being equipped with modern sports infrastructure under the central government's Khelo India scheme, is now slated for development as a National Centre of Excellence. As per the MoU, all existing facilities—including buildings, grounds, and related infrastructure—will be handed over to SAI for seamless operation and management.
Building a Legacy for Future Champions
Minister Khanna highlighted the long-term vision behind these decisions. The policy granting duty status to athletes is designed not only to support them in advancing their sporting careers but also to strengthen Uttar Pradesh's representation in national and global arenas.
Similarly, the Varanasi stadium's transformation into a National Centre of Excellence is poised to offer a major platform for emerging talent. According to Khanna, the centre will cater to athletes across various age groups and sporting disciplines, providing them with world-class training facilities right in the heart of UP.
Together, these announcements mark a strategic push by the state government to create a more supportive ecosystem for sports, from streamlining administrative processes for current athletes to building future-ready infrastructure for the next generation.
