Patna: Bihar’s sports infrastructure is set for a major boost, with 77 new block-level stadiums planned across the state. Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh announced the development while reviewing departmental projects on Friday. She said 257 stadiums have already been constructed under the Block-Level Outdoor Stadium Project.
During the review meeting, the department’s Additional Chief Secretary presented the progress report on ongoing schemes. It was informed that out of the allocated ₹668 crore, ₹498 crore has been utilised so far for construction, sports infrastructure development, international sports events, Eklavya centres, open gyms, multi-gyms, and playground development.
Officials also shared details about Eklavya centres — one functional in every district. Of the targeted 64 centres, 54 are currently operational. The Minister sought updates on government job appointments for medal-winning athletes from Bihar.
Scholarships and Mass Testing Initiatives Reviewed
The Additional Chief Secretary said the State Sports Scholarship Scheme is active at three different levels to support emerging athletes. Singh also reviewed the Torch Competition, under which nearly 1.6 million school students across all districts and blocks have undergone battery tests over the past 18 months to identify sporting talents.
Meanwhile, the construction of Panchayat-level sports grounds under MNREGA was also assessed. A total of 5,425 playgrounds have been approved; 4,662 are completed and 763 remain under construction.
Women’s Cricket Tournament in Patna from December 20
To mark the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a women’s cricket championship will be organized in Patna from December 20 to 25. Members of the organizing committee, led by State BJP Sports Cell Coordinator Satish Raju, met Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh and invited her as the chief guest for the tournament.
Nearly 200 selected women cricketers from across Bihar will compete in the event to display their talent. BJP Sports Cell Co-ordinator Santosh Kumar Mishra, Treasurer Vikas Kumar Singh, Social Media In-charge Kundan Kumar, and Vipul Kumar Singh were also present during the courtesy meeting.
With new infrastructure and grassroots initiatives gaining pace, Bihar aims to nurture more sporting talent and strengthen its presence in national competitions.
