Discussion on new sports policy draft in Uttarakhand

To encourage sports-persons, the sports department has recommended reservation from studies to jobs. The draft of the new sports policy also suggests introduction of scholarships, increasing the prize money for outstanding performers at international and national level and imposing one percent cess on alcohol for development of sports facilities.

The draft of the new sports policy was discussed in the Secretariat on Tuesday. In the presence of Sports Minister Arvind Pandey, a draft of the new policy was placed in front of the sports association, coaches and experts in this field and suggestions were also sought. The most important thing in the draft of the new policy is that it has recommended to give government jobs to medal winners at national and international levels.

According to the draft, 4% quota should be fixed for skilled players in Uttarakhand government services. For national medal winners in national competitions, it is recommended to set a quota of 15 per cent in departments related to enforcement, while 10 per cent in non-enforcement departments. It has also been suggested to increase the pension.

Sports Minister Arvind Pandey said, the new policy is focusing on providing sports facilities to economically weak children along with encouraging sports-persons. Efforts have been made to create interest in sports in all societies and to get talent out. Suggestions on the draft have also been sought. After this the policy will be finalized and placed in the cabinet. The new policy will definitely develop sports and sports-persons across the state.

It was suggested in the meeting that three categories of sports should be made. The first category includes athletics, taekwondo, judo, badminton, shooting, the second includes volleyball, football, hockey, karate and other sports in the third. Apart from this, two sports in every gram panchayat should be linked to MNREGA and school.

Colleges should be encouraged to promote sports. Special training in yoga and gymnastics etc. should be encouraged to the players. Dev Bhoomi Khel Ratna Award should be given to the trainers. Players should be given transportation discounts. Apart from this, the Chief Minister Udyaman Khiladi Yojana should be started.