New Delhi (Agency): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has declared a bold plan for the state: to achieve complete sports literacy within a decade. He made this announcement during the opening of the EK Nayanar Indoor Stadium and other facilities in Muzhapilangad village.
“A better sports culture requires better sports literacy. Sports culture can be formed by providing basic sports education to people irrespective of urban and rural areas,” said the Chief Minister. He emphasized that the government is committed to the concept of “health for all” and is formulating a sports policy around this principle.
To make this vision a reality, Vijayan disclosed that a ₹1500 crore project will be implemented. This project aims to develop essential sports facilities across Kerala. Moreover, a sports council will be created at the local self-government level to oversee and manage these developments.
Reaching this lofty goal is “an arduous task,” Vijayan admitted, calling for the support of sportspersons, coaches, media, and the general public. During the same event, Dr. V Sivadasan MP presided, and local football team captain Mithun was honored by the Chief Minister.
The new indoor stadium itself is a sign of the state’s commitment to boosting sports literacy. Constructed with a budget of ₹1.26 crore from the MLA’s Asset Development Fund for the years 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20, the facility includes three shuttle courts, a volleyball court, and seating for 250 people. Basic amenities like toilets and a drinking water system are also part of the new complex.
In addition to the indoor stadium, ₹10 lakhs were spent from a CSR fund to complete an LED wall scoreboard, perimeter wall, and interlock. Other amenities, costing ₹30 lakhs, were also built from the MLA’s asset development fund for the year 2020-21.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including District Panchayat President PP Divya, Chief Minister’s Constituency Representative P Balan, and others.
This initiative is a significant step in making sports an integral part of the state’s culture and education system. It reflects the government’s dedication to promoting health and well-being through sports, benefiting both rural and urban communities. With a 10-year plan and a significant budget, Kerala is setting a precedent for other states to follow in achieving sports literacy.
