SAI Approves Major Sports Infrastructure Upgrades Across India
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has set the stage for a transformative era in Indian sports with the approval of several strategic infrastructure development and upgrade projects. During a meeting led by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi, the Governing Body (GB) highlighted the need to enhance the nation’s sporting landscape to boost athletic performance.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of creating a robust sports ecosystem during his address to the GB. He stated, “The Indian sports ecosystem is now in its youth, and it is the need of the hour to strengthen it in every possible way so that it has a bright future. The decisions we are taking today are athlete-centric and aimed at ensuring that players have the best infrastructure that they need so that the medal counts that we have in mind for CWG and Olympics are met.”
Enhanced Facilities for Hockey and Shooting
Among the significant initiatives approved was the procurement of the Poligras Paris GT Zero hockey turf for the SAI NSSC in Bengaluru. This facility is crucial as it serves as the primary training ground for both the Indian men’s and women’s national hockey teams.
Additionally, the GB decided to replace the existing electronic shooting targets with advanced laser target systems at the Karni Singh Shooting Range (KSSR). This upgrade aims to improve the training capabilities for India’s elite and upcoming shooters, ensuring they are equipped with the best resources for competition.
Multipurpose Halls to Boost Training
The Governing Body also approved the construction of three multipurpose halls across various SAI centers. One will be at SAI NCOE Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, which will include specialized areas for boxing and space for indoor volleyball and badminton. The hall at SAI NSNIS Patiala is expected to enhance training capacity while providing sports science support facilities.
Similarly, LNCPE Trivandrum, a leading academic and training institution, will also benefit from a new multipurpose hall to allow seamless training and academic activities throughout the year.
New Tracks for Athletics Training
The committee recognized the need for enhanced athletics facilities as they approved the construction of a 400-meter, 8-lane synthetic athletics track at SAI STC Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. This center has become increasingly important for athletics training, demonstrating notable performances in competitions despite existing infrastructural limitations.
Moreover, the laying of a new synthetic track at SAI CRC, Bhopal was also sanctioned. This training hub has produced numerous international-level athletes, including two Olympians, underscoring the center’s status as a critical contributor to Indian sports.
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