Chandigarh, June 22 - Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal directed the officers to expeditiously work towards setting up the Haryana Sports Academy for training the players coming from across the country. He added that efforts should be made to ensure that the rehabilitation centre being built in Haryana should set an example in the country as Haryana not only provides best sports facilities to its players but also supports them during their tough phase of injury. The Chief Minister directed the officers to immediately outsource the management of Haryana Sports Rehabilitation Centre for its smooth functioning.

The Chief Minister gave these directions during the review meeting of Khelo India Youth Games-2021 in Chandigarh today. Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Sh. Sandeep Singh was also present in the meeting. During the meeting the Chief Minister directed the officers to collaborate with companies which are interested in providing CSR funds for the promotion of sports.

During the comprehensive discussions it came to light that though Haryana was the overall champion in the Khelo India Youth Games-2021 but the infrastructure for swimming, athletics and gymnastics need special upgradation. The Chief Minister asked the officers to build all-weather swimming pools meeting international standards so that the players can practice throughout the year. Likewise, appropriate facilities for athletes and gymnasts should be ensured so as to boost these games in the State, he added. The Chief Minister also directed the officers to hold State Level Games every year on the lines of Khelo India Youth Games. He added that this will motivate players to perform better and prepare them for Khelo India Youth Games and other International Sports Events.

The Chief Minister was apprised during the meeting that the state had successfully hosted the Khelo India Youth Games-2021 and the visiting teams of all States and Union Territories widely appreciated the arrangements especially the adequate availability of physiotherapists, sports-oriented diet, accommodation and transport facilities et al. The Chief Minister was apprised during the meeting that all the players from 36 states, including UTs appreciated the immaculate arrangements and international-level facilities provided by the State. The players and spectators highly appreciated the cultural programmes which were organized in the evening after the Games.

Meanwhile, Sh. Sandeep Singh apprised the Chief Minister that the youth of Nuh district has vast potential in sports which can be channelized by engaging them in sports activities. Subsequently, Sh. Manohar Lal asked the officers concerned to explore the opportunities to set up athletic tracks and gymnasiums in Nuh district to tap the hidden potential of the youth of this area.

During the meeting, Additional Chief Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Sh. Mahavir Singh, Advisor to Chief Minister Haryana, Sh. Yogender Chaudhry, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister-II, Smt. Ashima Brar and Director Sports and Youth Affairs, Sh. Pankaj Nain were present in the meeting.