Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during a visit to Meerut on Thursday, expressed confidence that the upcoming Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in the Sardhana area will establish new benchmarks for sports development across western Uttar Pradesh and the entire state. He emphasized that this institution, named after the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, is a source of immense pride for Uttar Pradesh and is poised to elevate India's sporting capabilities on the global stage.
Construction Progress and Academic Timeline
While reviewing the ongoing construction work, the Chief Minister announced that the first phase of the university is expected to be completed by March of this year. The academic session has already commenced in August 2025, with classes currently being held at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Agricultural University in Meerut. From the new academic session, the university will transition to its own campus, marking a significant milestone in its development.
Infrastructure and Financial Allocation
The university is being developed on a 90-acre plot of land along the Ganga canal in the Sardhana area, with the government allocating an additional 10 acres to support the project. For the initial phase, Rs 250 crore has been sanctioned, and new projects worth more than Rs 200 crore have been proposed for the second phase, which is scheduled for completion by May 2026.
Academic Offerings and Vision
The university will offer a comprehensive range of diploma, degree, and post-graduation courses in 12 different sports, including six traditional sports. In addition to these programs, research-based courses focused on sports will also be introduced, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence and innovation in the field of athletics.
World-Class Aspirations
Chief Minister Adityanath underscored the government's efforts to develop the university into a world-class sports facility. He directed officials to recruit the best faculty members and include former players as coaches to ensure that training incorporates practical experience and real-world insights. This approach aims to foster a new sports culture and enhance the quality of education provided at the institution.
Regional Impact and Historical Context
Highlighting the significance of the location, Yogi Adityanath noted that western Uttar Pradesh, particularly Meerut, has a rich history of sports enthusiasm and has produced many Olympians who have won medals for the country. He recalled that Meerut played a pivotal role in India's freedom movement and, under the 'One District One Product' scheme, sports items have been designated as the district product for Meerut, further promoting a sports-oriented economy.
Broader Sports Promotion Strategy
The Chief Minister revealed that the government is working towards establishing one sports college in each division of Uttar Pradesh, with the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut serving as the central hub for this initiative. Additionally, the government plans to provide support to private academies to further promote sports across the state, ensuring a holistic approach to athletic development.
In his remarks, Yogi Adityanath reiterated that the university will not only enhance sports education but also contribute to the broader aspirations of a developed India, making it a cornerstone for nurturing talent and achieving international recognition in various sports disciplines.
