IMPHAL: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has announced a substantial allocation of Rs 98 crore for sports development in the state budget for 2024-25.
The chief minister, who is also the in-charge of finance, announced while presenting the Annual State Budget estimate for 2024-25 during the first day of the 6th Session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.
This significant investment is aimed at elevating Manipur’s sports landscape and providing opportunities for the budding athletes of the state.
Key initiatives to be funded include the ‘Sportspersons Livelihood Guarantee Scheme’, which will receive Rs 4 crore to support retired athletes.
Funds have been allocated for quality coaching, including hiring foreign coaches, and support for indigenous arts, games, and football clubs.
Plans are in progress for the Manipur Football Academy, which will include new football fields with natural grass.
Besides, two projects have been approved under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS), including a Rs 40 crore Multipurpose Indoor Stadium and a Digital Infrastructure of Sports Excellence project.
Stating that upgrading sports infrastructure is a priority of the state government, the Chief Minister also urged the legislators to apply for playground construction in their respective constituencies.
