Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 02:
A former hockey player himself, bureaucrat turned Manipur Governor Dr Shivinder Singh Sindhu has expressed strong desire to ensure proper development State sportspersons and maintain qualitative standard of available infrastructure.
According to reliable sources, the Governor asked concerned sports department officials to place detailed data on existing facilities enjoyed by players as well as sectors that requires further development.
Taking into account of Manipur fast developing into a strong force to reckon with at national level sports and games competitions besides producing sportspersons of international stature the Governor is reported to have instructed State sports officials to submit documents for further improvement of facilities and method of training.
During a recent meeting with the State Youth Affairs and Sports Commissioner S Budhachandra the Governor sought reports on sports projects initiated by the Centre but which are yet to be implemented.
The source further disclosed of the Governor assuring all possible assistance by appraising the Central Government for expeditious implementation of pending sports programmes in Manipur.
The Governor has also recently visited and surveyed existing facilities at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, said the source while informing of the Union Youth Affairs and Sports Secretary Meenakshi Anand Chaudhuri having intimated State authorities to present details for development of sports at sub-division and block levels.
Intent on production world class sportspersons in the backdrop of India unable to make much progress in international arena especially at the recent Athens Olympic as well as realizing potential of athletes from Manipur emphasis is being given to develop sports in rural areas, observed the source.
Information has also been conveyed to State Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam to submit proposed projects/schemes for sports infrastructure development in Manipur with NEC as the funding agency.
Strong instructions has also been given to State authorities for active participation of youths in nation building through improvement of not only sports but in the fields of culture, rural development, information technology, education and health under the DONER Ministry.
To achieve the target of nation building emphasis is also being given to mobilize youth coordinators of NYKs, NSS, local youth clubs and NGOs.
The source also informed of the Union Ministry asking concerned State authorities to submit at the earliest action taken report on the matter and convening of Sports Ministers' meeting soon to chalk out plans.