Public participation key to sports development, says Vakiti Srihari

Telangana Youth and Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari said sports development requires joint efforts from governments and stakeholders. Speaking at the Chintan Shivir in Srinagar, he highlighted Telangana’s initiatives and stressed building a strong sporting ecosystem

Hyderabad: Sports development can be achieved in a comprehensive manner only when, along with the Central and State Governments, public participation, sports associations, voluntary organisations and corporate institutions collectively contribute, said Telangana Youth and Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari at the three-day Chintan Shivir which commenced in Srinagar on Friday.

Telangana Government Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan, Advisor to State Government (Sports) AP Jitender Reddy, SATG chairman Shiva Sena Reddy, SATG VC and MD Dr A Sonibala Devi, chief national badminton coach P Gopi Chand, and London Olympics bronze medallist Gagan Narang represented Telangana.

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Mr Srihari emphasised that a strong sporting ecosystem in the country requires coordinated efforts between the Central and State Governments.

He stated that future action plans should focus on bringing pride and recognition to the nation through sports.

The Minister highlighted that over the past two and a half years, the Telangana Government has not only successfully implemented Central Government schemes but has also introduced several impactful initiatives that have enhanced the state’s reputation in sports.

The Minister further mentioned that in line with the vision of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to make Hyderabad a hub for sports, the Sports Department had launched innovative programmes.

“These initiatives aim to identify and nurture talent from the grassroots level, with the successful events of CM Cup 2024 and 2025 serving as prime examples,” he said.

The Minister also noted that Telangana had been effectively implementing flagship programmes such as Khelo India, National Sports Day celebrations, “Sunday on Cycling,” and initiatives to honour Olympic medallists.