Patna: Bihar is set to make a splash on the global sports stage with the announcement of its first world-class swimming academy, designed to nurture international-level swimmers. The agreement for the initiative was formalised at a high-level meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, during the annual general assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia.
The delegation from Bihar included Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh, Director General of the Bihar State Sports Authority Ravindran Shankaran, and Secretary of the Sports Department Mahendra Kumar. They were joined by Captain Hussain, Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia and President of the World Aquatics Federation, who played a pivotal role in the discussions.
The proposed academy, to be developed in collaboration with the World Swimming Federation, aims to equip Bihar’s athletes with advanced technology, scientific training methods, and access to international coaching. Speaking about the initiative, Minister Singh called it “a milestone for the future of sports in Bihar,” adding that it would provide athletes with improved platforms to hone their skills while enhancing the state’s global sporting profile.
Captain Hussain highlighted the importance of integrating sports and education, stressing that athlete development depends on both a safe environment and quality education. As part of the plan, the academy will offer access to reputable educational institutions, hostel facilities, and grassroots swimming programmes, allowing young athletes to maintain a balance between studies and training.
The meeting also explored strengthening Bihar’s swimming infrastructure, including modern pools, coaching systems, and athlete development programmes, with a view to hosting national and international competitions. Shankaran confirmed that state and national champion Mahi Shwet Raj will be sent abroad for advanced training with support from the World Swimming Federation—a move expected to inspire the next generation of swimmers in the state.
For years, Bihar’s talented swimmers have faced barriers due to limited resources and international-level coaching. The establishment of the swimming academy promises to change that narrative, enabling athletes to compete at the Olympics, Asian Games, and World Championships. The project is being hailed as a transformative step for sports in Bihar, offering young athletes new opportunities and aspirations.
