Lucknow, March 20 : The Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government in the span of the last five years has made significant efforts to foster sports culture, which has enabled players of the state to perform and shine internationally. The government has not only worked to support the athletes but also has worked to develop the sports infrastructure in the state. Taking inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolve of encouraging athletes and sports activities, Yogi Government 2.0 has ensured encouragement and inclusiveness of women in sports, officials here on Sunday claimed. One of the major highlights of the Yogi government 2.0 is the State Talent Search and Development Scheme for women athletes at a cost of Rs 500 crores. Under which, a financial assistance of up to Rs 5 lakhs will be provided to the selected female athletes, officials added. It is noteworthy that during its last tenure, the Yogi government majorly contributed towards encouraging women players. For training of 16 sports in 19 districts of the state, facilities of 44 hostels were arranged for around 890 players. For 18 players who won medals in 21st Commonwealth Games, a financial reward of nearly Rs 2.60 crore was given. In the 18th Asian Games, nearly 46 players who won medals were awarded Rs 3.90 crore. Under the Khelo India campaign, nearly 37 new stadiums are being built in the state. This will not only give a boost to the sports culture but will also provide sports facilities to the youth in their state itself. Besides, rural stadiums are also being built in the state. A total of 186 competitions were organized in the state during the ‘Khoob Khelo Khoob Padho’ pakhwada. The amount of Rs 1000 for sports kit was increased to Rs 2500. An amount of Rs 55.98 lakh was also given to 18 players of the state. Last but not least, establishment of a ‘Sport versity’ in Meerut is an important step of the government in the direction of giving a platform to the talent of the players of the state. MB SHK1640