Chennai, May 19: The Tamil Nadu government is making significant preparations to promote sports within the state. New initiatives will be implemented to strengthen sports infrastructure, enhance athlete welfare, and identify talent.
On Tuesday, a review meeting of the sports department was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai, chaired by the Minister for Public Works and Sports Development, Aadhav Arjuna. Senior officials from the sports department were also present.
After the meeting, the minister informed reporters that Chief Minister Joseph Vijay is implementing long-term vision projects to address the state’s future needs, with the sports sector being a crucial part of this roadmap.
The minister detailed that discussions during the meeting included proposed sports infrastructure projects for 2026-27, the implementation of a three percent reservation for athletes in government jobs, increased incentives for medal-winning athletes at national and international levels, upgrades to sports hostels, and the expansion of financial assistance programs for players.
Special attention is being given to identifying talented school students from economically weaker sections. Aadhav Arjuna announced the establishment of a “Talent Research Wing” to identify gifted athletes based on merit, ensuring that no external recommendations or influences are allowed.
The meeting also emphasized the timely provision of essential sports equipment, including shoes and training tools, to athletes. The minister stated that financial constraints should not hinder an athlete’s success, and the government is working on new arrangements to provide more effective support to players.
Additionally, it was announced that the operations of sports associations will be linked to an online platform for better coordination between the sports department and athletes.
Following the Chief Minister’s directives, the minister will tour all districts to inspect sports facilities and identify areas needing improvement.
Earlier, the minister interacted with players participating in selection trials at the stadium and inspected facilities such as the special fitness center for para-athletes, table tennis arena, weightlifting unit, and shooting range.
The meeting was attended by several senior officials, including S. J. R. Chauhan, Secretary of the Youth Welfare and Sports Development Department, and J. Meganath Reddy, Member Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Sports Development Authority.
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