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Tag: Sports Infrastructure

  • Gallant Sports to surpass Rs 100 crore revenue mark

    Gallant Sports to surpass Rs 100 crore revenue mark

    Mumbai: Gallant Sports, a pioneer in India’s sports infrastructure, is set to surpass the ₹100 crore revenue milestone in the 2024-25 financial year, becoming the first company in the country’s sports field construction sector to achieve this. This growth aligns with the company’s vision to lead in sports infrastructure development, providing advanced solutions and supporting emerging athletic talent.

    Gallant aims to create a world-class infrastructure that benefits athletes and communities. The company offers comprehensive solutions covering construction, manufacturing, and maintenance, utilizing advanced sports maintenance equipment. Its projects prioritize sustainability and long-term playability, focusing on developing future sports champions in India.

    To enhance sports infrastructure, Gallant has introduced five new products tailored for urban and rural facilities. These include high-performance TPE/PP tiles with anti-skid features, a honeycomb design for improved slip resistance, and the world’s first 30×60 cm sports tile with elastic rubber supports for better surface friction. The company also launched a 100 per cent recyclable turf that is lightweight and safer for athletes, promoting sustainability in sports. Additionally, Gallant introduced Gallant Track, a Full PUR system running track known for its durability and low maintenance.

    Furthermore, Gallant is collaborating with leading sports management institutes to develop a training program for skilled labor in installation, civil works, and maintenance. This initiative aims to elevate the industry by ensuring a qualified workforce to meet the growing demand for sports infrastructure.

    The company has seen significant growth due to rising demand for premium, injury-free sports facilities that cater to athletes and promote social inclusion. These facilities provide safe, high-quality spaces for all ages, encouraging healthier lifestyles and community engagement.

    Gallant Sports CEO Nasir Ali stated, “At Gallant Sports, our mission goes beyond just building world-class sports infrastructure; we are shaping the future of sports in India. We believe that by offering sustainable, cutting-edge facilities, we are not only creating opportunities for athletes to excel but also fostering healthier, more inclusive communities across the country. Our recent collaborations with global leaders like Domo Grass, Belgium, and our ongoing discussions with top-tier shoe companies for sustainable rubber granules are testaments to our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. As we prepare to cross the ₹100 crore revenue mark, our focus remains on delivering excellence at every level—whether through our advanced sports tiles, 100% recyclable turf, or premium running tracks. Gallant Sports is here to make a lasting impact, ensuring that India becomes a global sports powerhouse while promoting a culture of sports for all.”

    Gallant’s expansion has been bolstered by partnerships with sports associations, educational institutions, and corporate bodies. These collaborations have been vital to the company’s growth, allowing it to enter new markets. Recently, Gallant announced a partnership with Domo Grass from Belgium to enhance its product offerings. The company is also in discussions with a major global shoe manufacturer to develop sustainable rubber granules, highlighting its focus on environmentally friendly innovations.

    To support its goals, Gallant plans to establish manufacturing facilities for sports tiles, athletics tracks, and jogging tracks in India through various international collaborations. This move aims to improve production efficiency and meet the increasing demand for high-quality sports infrastructure nationwide.

  • First FIH-certified hockey field unveiled in Tripura

    First FIH-certified hockey field unveiled in Tripura

    Mumbai:  In an exciting development, the Agartala Sports Department, in collaboration with Gallant Sports, will unveil a FIH-certified hockey ground in Agartala, marking a significant advancement for the region’s sports infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility, developed under the Khelo India Scheme, is expected to transform the landscape of hockey in Tripura by offering world-class amenities for athletes to train and compete.

    The project, initiated in December 2023, faced early challenges with uneven ground levels, some areas being more than a foot higher than others. However, Gallant Sports rose to the occasion by meticulously leveling the ground to meet international standards. This upcoming hockey ground will not only be standard-sized but also certified by the Federation of International Hockey (FIH), ensuring it complies with the highest global benchmarks.

    Gallant Sports CEO Nasir Ali commented, “We are thrilled to be part of the Agartala Hockey Project, which has culminated in the creation of a hockey ground meeting international standards, now certified by the FIH. This facility is more than just a venue; it’s a platform designed to inspire and nurture young talent. With world-class infrastructure, we aim to motivate and encourage the next generation of athletes. By enhancing local sports facilities, we’re cultivating a culture of excellence in Indian hockey. Our vision is for this ground to become a premier training hub where passion and potential unite, enabling local talent to shine on the global stage.”

    The hockey ground, designed to meet international standards, will provide aspiring athletes in Tripura with a professional environment where they can prepare for national and international competitions. This development, scheduled for completion soon, aligns with the government’s broader vision to boost sports participation through the Khelo India Scheme, aiming to nurture grassroots talent and create a vibrant sports culture across India.

    The facility will serve as a resource for schools, local sports clubs, and future hockey stars, ensuring long-term benefits for the community and contributing to India’s growth in the sport on the global stage. This hockey ground is set to be a pivotal point for developing young talent who will compete on international platforms.

  • India needs quality sports infrastructure at the grassroots level: Gallant Sports’ Nasir Ali

    India needs quality sports infrastructure at the grassroots level: Gallant Sports’ Nasir Ali

    Mumbai: Despite India’s impressive economic growth, the sports sector continues to lag behind international standards. With an 11 per cent annual growth rate, the sector is still underperforming, highlighted by the Sports Ministry’s marginal budget increase of ₹45.36 crore this cycle.

    As a leading player in sports infrastructure, Gallant Sports is making significant strides through innovative projects and partnerships with Khelo India and the Sports Authority of India, while also emphasizing sustainability. The company, poised for substantial growth, aims for a 25 per cent annual increase and a target of ₹1000 crore in the next five years, reflecting its commitment to transforming India’s sports ecosystem.

    Indiantelevision.com’s Arth Chakraborty caught up with Gallant Sports CEO and founder Nasir Ali who provides valuable insights into bridging this gap, and the dynamics of sports infrastructure industry dynamics.

    Edited Excerpts:

    On the challenges in bridging the gap between India’s sports sector growth and international standards

    India faces several challenges in aligning its sports sector with international standards. The primary challenges are:

    A. Quality infrastructure: One of the critical barriers is the lack of high-quality, injury-free sports surfaces at the grassroots level. We need to provide international-standard facilities for various sports in each district, tailored to the popular sports of that region. For instance, Haryana’s success in wrestling, athletics, and boxing can be replicated in other regions by identifying and nurturing local potential.

    B. Cultural shift towards sports: There is a need for a cultural shift where sports become an integral part of our daily lives. Parents should engage in sports for fitness, serving as role models for their children. This cultural change will ensure that sports become a natural part of children’s lives, fostering a sporty and healthy lifestyle from a young age. Family outings centered around sports can significantly contribute to embedding sports in our DNA.

    C. Increased exposure and training: Exposure to more tournaments at every age group is crucial, including opportunities for international competition. Additionally, our coaches need continuous training and exposure to modern coaching techniques, including mental strength training. A robust “Train the Trainers” program is essential to ensure our coaches are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge, similar to how doctors continuously upscale their expertise.

    How has partnering with Khelo India and the Sports Authority of India impacted Gallant Sports’ projects and growth

    Partnering with Khelo India and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) has significantly impacted Gallant Sports’ growth and projects. Khelo India and SAI have been the backbone of government infrastructure development in India, especially at the grassroots level. Their efforts in pumping projects into districts have laid a strong foundation. However, to compete with the top ten economies globally, we need to increase the number of smaller, localized projects and secure more funding for sports infrastructure.

    SAI primarily focuses on supporting players and has been doing an excellent job. However, we need more SAI centers of excellence in every state and major district that excels in sports. Gallant Sports is proud to be a part of this journey, having built around 10 FIFA-approved football fields and three FIH Global hockey fields. These accomplishments have earned us the title of FIH Field Builders. We are now venturing into constructing world-class athletic tracks for the Government of India, further contributing to the nation’s sports infrastructure.

    On the specific changes or initiatives that you’d like to see from the government to better support the sports infrastructure industry

    To better support the sports infrastructure industry, we need a more strategic and expert-driven approach. Gallant Sports has recently established the Sports and Field Builders Association of India (SFBA), which aims to play a pivotal role in policy advocacy and planning. We need to involve more experts in the planning stages to ensure that the projects implemented meet the specific needs of each district. Smaller, injury-free world-class facilities should be prioritized to make quality sports infrastructure accessible to more people.

    Additionally, increasing the budget for sports infrastructure, teams, and athletes is essential. This includes not only constructing new facilities but also maintaining and upgrading existing ones. Collaboration with the government is crucial to developing a comprehensive plan that addresses the diverse requirements of our vast country.

    On the role of the private sector, including Gallant Sports, in supplementing government efforts to boost sports infrastructure in India, given the Sports Ministry’s budget has seen only a marginal increase

    The private sector, including Gallant Sports, can play a crucial role in supplementing government efforts to enhance sports infrastructure. One effective strategy is to focus on developing smaller, specialized fields that cater to various sports at the grassroots level. Ensuring that sports facilities are available in high schools and universities can make a significant difference, as it provides young athletes with the opportunity to practice and compete regularly.

    Additionally, implementing a mandate that sports facilities are compulsory for educational institutions, similar to China’s approach, could be transformative. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in sports development and grassroots projects are also vital. By collaborating with corporations, we can secure funding and support for building and maintaining sports infrastructure in underserved areas.

    On Gallant Sports contributing to the “Make in India” initiative, and the advantages this brings to your projects

    Gallant Sports is actively contributing to the “Make in India” initiative by focusing on manufacturing athletic tracks and sports tiles domestically. We are collaborating with raw material manufacturers in India and abroad to produce high-quality, cost-effective alternatives to expensive European imports. This initiative not only supports the “Make in India” mission but also ensures the availability of injury-free, high-durability sports surfaces.

    By producing these materials locally, we reduce dependency on imports, lower costs, and promote the growth of the domestic manufacturing sector. This approach aligns with the government’s vision of making India a global manufacturing hub while also addressing the specific needs of the sports infrastructure industry.

    On the emerging trends in sports infrastructure that you are excited about, and Gallant Sports positioning itself to leverage these trends

    We are excited about several emerging trends in sports infrastructure, including India’s potential to host the Olympics and its journey towards becoming a global sports leader. The prospect of winning more medals and establishing India as a powerhouse in the global sports arena is thrilling. Gallant Sports is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation by continuously innovating and developing top-tier sports infrastructure.

    We are committed to contributing to this vision by constructing world-class facilities, implementing sustainable practices, and leveraging advanced technologies. Our goal is to ensure that India is ready to host major international events and to support the development of athletes who can compete at the highest levels.

    On Gallant Sports ensuring environmental sustainability in its projects, and do you think current sustainability efforts in the sports infrastructure industry are truly effective, or do you see them as more of a cost-cutting measure

    Gallant Sports is dedicated to ensuring environmental sustainability in all its projects. We have pioneered the use of 100 per cent recyclable, permeable turf that promotes water conservation and reduces environmental impact. Additionally, our non-concrete, dynamic bases facilitate groundwater recharge through sumps and rainwater harvesting systems.

    These initiatives are not merely cost-cutting measures but essential steps towards creating a sustainable future for sports infrastructure in India. We believe that true sustainability requires a commitment to environmental stewardship, and we advocate for incorporating these practices in all school, college, university, and corporate real estate projects.

    On the upcoming projects or expansions that Gallant Sports is planning, and their contribution to the sports ecosystem in India

    Gallant Sports has several exciting projects and expansions in the pipeline. We are heavily investing in football projects in Northeast India, a region with immense talent and potential. Additionally, we are introducing affordable floodlighting solutions to extend play hours, making sports facilities more accessible during the evenings.

    Our passion for building sports infrastructure in schools drives us to continue expanding in this area. We have already built sports facilities in over 200 schools across India, making us the largest sports infrastructure company in the country by volume. Each year, we install nearly 300,000 square meters of sports surfaces, contributing significantly to the development of the next generation of athletes. These efforts ensure that young talent has the facilities and opportunities they need to thrive, ultimately strengthening the sports ecosystem in India.

  • Guest column: From gold-standard sports infrastructure to Olympic gold for India

    Guest column: From gold-standard sports infrastructure to Olympic gold for India

    MUMBAI: Sports has had a diverse, rich and colourful history in India. From the gold mine of talent unearthed from the farthest corners of the country to shining torches of tomorrow in competitive world events, India has witnessed exemplary and legendary sportsmanship.

    Notwithstanding the potential sports prowess the country possesses, India still has a long way to go to be becoming a world power in sports. Each Olympics, we hope for India to come back shining with honours.

    Then what exactly is stopping a country with one of the largest youth population and a promising generation of ace sportspeople. The pros and cons of the sporting ecosystem can be a long debate, but a key element to be discussed is a good and robust infrastructure. The sporting infrastructure forms the backbone of sports legacy in any nation. A brilliant case study in contributing to the sporting infrastructure of India among a few legacy names is also the DY Patil Stadium.

    A good sports infrastructure not only encourages international mega sporting events to look at a country as an exciting host destination, but at the grassroots it is vital to expand and develop a culture of sports. Athletes need to have access to high performance, world-class facilities which will enable them to train based on global standards. A weak infrastructure is a hard-hitting obstacle in the journey of an athlete’s training and also discourages young people in the country from taking sports seriously.

    There is a need to bridge this gap, raise the bar and develop a winning environment for sports. When it comes to infrastructure, there are certain elements that are cornerstones in gauging the excellence of a facility or centre

    International standards

    The standards of every equipment, amenity, and any allied element in infrastructure needs to meet standards of global, mega sporting events. The quality, area size and type of materials all make a massive difference in increasing preparedness of a sportsperson and equipping them to play at a mega level.

    For example for football, the FIFA standard ground at DY Patil is to ensure preparedness at an international level for an aspiring footballer. Athletes also have access to a premium facility gymnasium and the TMGA DY Patil Sports Centre, which adds an edge to global sports training.

    The challenges and opportunities provided by the area will enhance the game of the sportsperson.

    Ease of operations

    It is necessary to understand and innovate to enhance a player’s game. For example, outfields in India are typically made of red soil, when it rains the outfield tends to become sluggish and heavy. To minimise the interruption because of rain, the DY Patil Stadium’s outfield is sand based. A completely concealed underground drainage system helps quickly remove water. Again, minimum interruptions in games or training are valuable, since each minute gone on the clock in sports is a massive loss.

    Customised to the sport

    Every sport has its ideal playing field and every sport an athlete trains for requires the ideal field from the training stage. For tennis, hard courts of uniform material and layers which offer greater constituency of bounce is preferred.  Attention to these details play an integral role, since every sportsperson gets his well-deserved share of the pie and a level playing field increases the confidence in a player’s game.

    Recovery areas

    It is imperative that every sportsperson gets proper access to recovery and rehab facilities. Sports is a strenuous activity and a well-equipped facility includes special recovery areas, ice baths which help players recoup and also prevent long run injuries whenever possible.

    It is not an understatement to say if India becomes home to world-class sporting infrastructure, there is no stopping the nation from realising its immense potential in the global sports arena. Among pioneering infrastructure names in building India’s sports legacy, when India becomes home to world-class sporting infrastructure, the DY Patil Stadium is sure to be one of the leading global venues.

    (The author is president, DY Patil Sports Academy. Indiantelevision.com may not subscribe to his thoughts.)

  • Govt to merge all centrally-sponsored schemes as part of improving sports infrastructure

    Govt to merge all centrally-sponsored schemes as part of improving sports infrastructure

    New Delhi: After consultation with the state governments/Sports Authority of India (SAI), etc., the government has decided to restructure and merge a number of centrally sponsored schemes, including the centrally sponsored scheme- the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan scheme into one central sector scheme to address talent search, grooming of talent and provision of infrastructure to ensure its effective implementation.

    At present, the central government is implementing only one centrally sponsored scheme for development of sports, the RGKA, with effect from 1 April 2014. This scheme provides for construction of an integrated sports complex in each block of the country, both for outdoor and indoor sports disciplines and also provides for grant-in-aid for holding competitions at block, district, state and national levels.

    The RGKA provides for funding of infrastructure component through convergence of various schemes implemented by Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Development of North East Region ministries, and the erstwhile Planning Commission.

    However, sports ministry officials told indiantelevision.com that no funds could be obtained towards infrastructure due to non-convergence of various schemes by the concerned ministries.

    The SAI under the Ministry implements seven sports promotional schemes all over the country in order to identify young sports talent in the age group ranging from 8 to 25 years and to nurture them to excel at national and international competitions. These are National Sports Talent Contest (NSTC); Army Boys Sports Company (ABSC); SAI Training Centre (STC); Special Area Games (SAG); Extension Centres of STC/SAG; Centre of Excellence (COE); and SAI National Sports Academies.

    Meanwhile revising earlier guidelines, government-appointed observers will keep it informed about fair play in the selection of teams, performance of teams at international level, training of sub-junior and junior level athletes and performance of Indian and foreign coaches.

    The government observers will also study the infrastructural gaps at national coaching camps and play an important role in preparation of Annual Calendar of Training and Competitions (ACTC). In addition, they will provide technical advice to Sports Authority of India and will maintain data on individual athletes and coaches.

    Initially, the government observers will be appointed for high priority / priority category sports disciplines. Each sports discipline will be provided 1 male and 1 female government observer. Foreigners may also be considered for such appointments.

    The government observers will be appointed through open advertisements. They will not be paid regular salary, but honorarium for their work which will be dependent on the number of their visits to national coaching camps etc. – thus establishing a direct relationship between their work and payment.

    Meanwhile, Meghalaya proposes to bid for National Games in 2022. Allotment of National Games is done by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) from the bids submitted by the States.  Realizing the potential of talented sports persons available in the North-Eastern Region, the ministry is providing support for creation and development of sports infrastructure to the states in that part of the country.

    Under the Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme (USIS), the ministry has approved grant of Rs.87.5 crore for 15 sports infrastructure projects such as multi-purpose halls, astro-turfs for hockey, synthetic athletic tracks, during the period from 2010-11 to 2015-16 (upto 31 December 2015) and released grant to the tune of Rs.53.25 crore during this period in the region.

    Financial assistance from the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) had also been provided for sports infrastructure projects viz., Mary Kom Regional Boxing Foundation for Construction of Gymnasium Hall and Procurement/ Installation of GYM Equipment (Rs.5.54 crore) and Dibrugarh University for Creation of Sports facilities in 10 affiliated colleges (Rs.2.23 crore).

    SAI has five training centres, 8 Special Area Games (SAG) Centres and 2 Centres of Excellence (CoE) in the North Eastern Region, where sports infrastructure in the form of athletic tracks, hockey turfs, tennis courts, football grounds, multi-purpose halls, basketball courts etc. is available.

  • Govt to merge all centrally-sponsored schemes as part of improving sports infrastructure

    Govt to merge all centrally-sponsored schemes as part of improving sports infrastructure

    New Delhi: After consultation with the state governments/Sports Authority of India (SAI), etc., the government has decided to restructure and merge a number of centrally sponsored schemes, including the centrally sponsored scheme- the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan scheme into one central sector scheme to address talent search, grooming of talent and provision of infrastructure to ensure its effective implementation.

    At present, the central government is implementing only one centrally sponsored scheme for development of sports, the RGKA, with effect from 1 April 2014. This scheme provides for construction of an integrated sports complex in each block of the country, both for outdoor and indoor sports disciplines and also provides for grant-in-aid for holding competitions at block, district, state and national levels.

    The RGKA provides for funding of infrastructure component through convergence of various schemes implemented by Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Development of North East Region ministries, and the erstwhile Planning Commission.

    However, sports ministry officials told indiantelevision.com that no funds could be obtained towards infrastructure due to non-convergence of various schemes by the concerned ministries.

    The SAI under the Ministry implements seven sports promotional schemes all over the country in order to identify young sports talent in the age group ranging from 8 to 25 years and to nurture them to excel at national and international competitions. These are National Sports Talent Contest (NSTC); Army Boys Sports Company (ABSC); SAI Training Centre (STC); Special Area Games (SAG); Extension Centres of STC/SAG; Centre of Excellence (COE); and SAI National Sports Academies.

    Meanwhile revising earlier guidelines, government-appointed observers will keep it informed about fair play in the selection of teams, performance of teams at international level, training of sub-junior and junior level athletes and performance of Indian and foreign coaches.

    The government observers will also study the infrastructural gaps at national coaching camps and play an important role in preparation of Annual Calendar of Training and Competitions (ACTC). In addition, they will provide technical advice to Sports Authority of India and will maintain data on individual athletes and coaches.

    Initially, the government observers will be appointed for high priority / priority category sports disciplines. Each sports discipline will be provided 1 male and 1 female government observer. Foreigners may also be considered for such appointments.

    The government observers will be appointed through open advertisements. They will not be paid regular salary, but honorarium for their work which will be dependent on the number of their visits to national coaching camps etc. – thus establishing a direct relationship between their work and payment.

    Meanwhile, Meghalaya proposes to bid for National Games in 2022. Allotment of National Games is done by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) from the bids submitted by the States.  Realizing the potential of talented sports persons available in the North-Eastern Region, the ministry is providing support for creation and development of sports infrastructure to the states in that part of the country.

    Under the Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme (USIS), the ministry has approved grant of Rs.87.5 crore for 15 sports infrastructure projects such as multi-purpose halls, astro-turfs for hockey, synthetic athletic tracks, during the period from 2010-11 to 2015-16 (upto 31 December 2015) and released grant to the tune of Rs.53.25 crore during this period in the region.

    Financial assistance from the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) had also been provided for sports infrastructure projects viz., Mary Kom Regional Boxing Foundation for Construction of Gymnasium Hall and Procurement/ Installation of GYM Equipment (Rs.5.54 crore) and Dibrugarh University for Creation of Sports facilities in 10 affiliated colleges (Rs.2.23 crore).

    SAI has five training centres, 8 Special Area Games (SAG) Centres and 2 Centres of Excellence (CoE) in the North Eastern Region, where sports infrastructure in the form of athletic tracks, hockey turfs, tennis courts, football grounds, multi-purpose halls, basketball courts etc. is available.

  • FICCI Sports Committee to pitch for raise in sports budget allocation to FM

    FICCI Sports Committee to pitch for raise in sports budget allocation to FM

    NEW DELHI: Sports infrastructure is to get industry status in a bid to scale up the availability and accessibility of sporting facilities in the country.

    Making this announcement, Sports Secretary Rajiv Yadav from the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry said there was a dire need to increase the budgetary support to the Sports Ministry to enable it to enhance the allocation of funds to upgrade up sports development in the country, especially in small towns and district level towns.

    “The Union Government’s budget for sports was a measly Rs 835 crore,” he said.

    The move to give industry status has been hailed by the sporting community and administrators as it will enable corporates to avail of concessional finance for creation of sports infrastructure on a par with international standards.

    Addressing Turf 2015-16, the seventh edition Global Sports Summit organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) with the support of the Ministry, Yadav urged the FICCI Sports Committee to make a strong pitch to the Finance Minister to raise the allocation for sports in the ensuing budget.

    Yadav said that planning for sports required enlargement of the catchment area for spotting and grooming talent. In this context, he said that his ministry was inspired by the sports ‘khel mahakumbh’ organised annually by Gujarat. It had therefore decided to scale up the National School Games beginning from the fiscal year 2016-17.

    Former cricket captain Kapil Dev pointed out that the onus of providing playgrounds in schools rested with the Government and recommended at least 40 per cent of the land for schools should be earmarked for playgrounds. He also underlined to need to reduce customs duties on sporting equipment to enable import and provide top quality sporting gear to sports persons.

    FICCI Sports Committee chairman and Star India president and head – sports Nitin Kukreja said there is a need to first recognise the importance of sport for the country, then nurture the economic opportunity that the various leagues and events have thrown up, and get India to play by providing access to facilities already available and by making sport a compulsory part of school curriculum – and match all of this with an ambition.

    FICCI DG Dr. Arbind Prasad said that for making India a sporting nation, there is a need for parallel sports both for excellence and grassroots development. FICCI, he said has been proactive in suggesting policy formulation and was working closely with the Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India on policy interventions to achieve sports objectives. “We should compare the sports budget of our country with other countries which are leading in sports and give financial security to sports persons to bring about a visible change,” he said.

  • FICCI Sports Committee to pitch for raise in sports budget allocation to FM

    FICCI Sports Committee to pitch for raise in sports budget allocation to FM

    NEW DELHI: Sports infrastructure is to get industry status in a bid to scale up the availability and accessibility of sporting facilities in the country.

    Making this announcement, Sports Secretary Rajiv Yadav from the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry said there was a dire need to increase the budgetary support to the Sports Ministry to enable it to enhance the allocation of funds to upgrade up sports development in the country, especially in small towns and district level towns.

    “The Union Government’s budget for sports was a measly Rs 835 crore,” he said.

    The move to give industry status has been hailed by the sporting community and administrators as it will enable corporates to avail of concessional finance for creation of sports infrastructure on a par with international standards.

    Addressing Turf 2015-16, the seventh edition Global Sports Summit organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) with the support of the Ministry, Yadav urged the FICCI Sports Committee to make a strong pitch to the Finance Minister to raise the allocation for sports in the ensuing budget.

    Yadav said that planning for sports required enlargement of the catchment area for spotting and grooming talent. In this context, he said that his ministry was inspired by the sports ‘khel mahakumbh’ organised annually by Gujarat. It had therefore decided to scale up the National School Games beginning from the fiscal year 2016-17.

    Former cricket captain Kapil Dev pointed out that the onus of providing playgrounds in schools rested with the Government and recommended at least 40 per cent of the land for schools should be earmarked for playgrounds. He also underlined to need to reduce customs duties on sporting equipment to enable import and provide top quality sporting gear to sports persons.

    FICCI Sports Committee chairman and Star India president and head – sports Nitin Kukreja said there is a need to first recognise the importance of sport for the country, then nurture the economic opportunity that the various leagues and events have thrown up, and get India to play by providing access to facilities already available and by making sport a compulsory part of school curriculum – and match all of this with an ambition.

    FICCI DG Dr. Arbind Prasad said that for making India a sporting nation, there is a need for parallel sports both for excellence and grassroots development. FICCI, he said has been proactive in suggesting policy formulation and was working closely with the Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India on policy interventions to achieve sports objectives. “We should compare the sports budget of our country with other countries which are leading in sports and give financial security to sports persons to bring about a visible change,” he said.