Patna: The Bihar government has announced a series of measures aimed at accelerating sports development across the state, with a focus on providing athletes with world-class infrastructure, advanced training facilities and better career opportunities.
The decisions were reviewed during a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, where officials assessed the progress of ongoing sports projects and outlined future priorities.
‘Medal Lao, Naukri Pao’ Scheme to Get Boost
As part of its efforts to encourage sporting excellence, the government plans to strengthen the ‘Medal Lao, Naukri Pao’ (Win Medals, Get Jobs) scheme. The initiative seeks to provide employment opportunities to athletes who perform at the international level, creating a direct link between sporting achievement and career prospects.
Officials said the move is expected to motivate athletes to strive for higher achievements in national and global competitions.
Infrastructure Expansion Across the State
The government has directed authorities to complete outdoor stadium projects at the block level within the stipulated timelines. Officials are also exploring the possibility of adopting a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for the operation and maintenance of these facilities.
Construction of district-level sports complexes-cum-gymnasiums is also being expedited to improve access to training infrastructure and fitness facilities.
Focus on Grassroots Talent
In a bid to strengthen sports at the grassroots level, the government has proposed regular sports festivals and competitions in every panchayat. The initiative is expected to help identify and nurture talented athletes from rural areas.
Officials believe that expanding participation at the local level will create a stronger pipeline of athletes for state and national competitions.
Ministers Outline Vision
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said Bihar is laying a strong foundation for long-term sports development and aims to establish a distinct identity in the sector.
Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh said the government is committed to creating better opportunities for athletes, with a focus on improving performance and increasing the state’s medal tally.
Sports University to Introduce New Courses
The government is also working on introducing new employment-oriented and skill-based courses at Bihar Sports University. The proposed programmes are intended to promote innovation and provide athletes with additional career pathways beyond competitive sports.
Stadium Projects Gather Pace
According to official figures, sports grounds have already been completed in 5,266 of Bihar’s 8,053 panchayats, while work in the remaining panchayats is expected to be completed in the coming months.
An international-standard stadium is planned at the Dumri Sports Complex in Patna. Meanwhile, the Rajgir Cricket Stadium project has been given a completion target of December 31.
Long-Term Goal
The government’s broader objective is to position Bihar as a leading sporting destination capable of producing athletes who can compete successfully at national and international levels.
By combining infrastructure development, athlete welfare initiatives and grassroots participation, the state hopes to build a sustainable sporting ecosystem and enhance Bihar’s presence on the global sports stage.
