Patna: Bihar is set to get its first Water Sports Academy at Odhni Dam in Banka district, marking a major step towards the development of water sports in the state. The announcement was made by Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh on Wednesday after a review meeting held at the Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA).
The minister said the initiative follows recent discussions with the Chief Minister and Sports Minister of Madhya Pradesh, where both states agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation for the overall development of sports and sportspersons. As part of this collaboration, the Indian Canoeing and Kayaking Association, based in Bhopal, deputed a team of international experts to Bihar to identify a suitable location for establishing a water sports academy.
The expert team was led by Canadian Olympian and international specialist Jack, along with chief coach Pradeep Naidu and international athlete Namita. Over three days, the team conducted detailed inspections of Durgavati Dam in Sasaram, Garhi Dam in Jamui, Odhni Dam in Banka, and Hardiya Dam in Nawada.
Based on the survey report, Odhni Dam in Banka was found to be the most suitable site for the proposed Water Sports Academy. Jack described Odhni Dam as one of the finest locations in the world for water sports, citing its natural conditions and potential for long-term development.
Officials said the dam is not only ideal for setting up a training academy but can also host national and international competitions in canoeing, kayaking and rowing. The location offers the necessary depth, water spread and environmental conditions required for high-level water sports events.
Jack is scheduled to visit Bihar again in February to assist in the selection of athletes, design of training programmes, and development of essential infrastructure such as jetties and sports equipment for the academy.
The proposed Water Sports Academy will be equipped with international-standard facilities, including professional training infrastructure, modern equipment and quality residential arrangements for athletes.
The meeting was attended by BSSA Director General Ravindran Shankaran, Director Ravindra Nath Chaudhary, Deputy Director Himanshu Singh, Indian Canoeing and Kayaking Association chief coach Pradeep Naidu, international athlete Namita, and Bihar Canoeing and Kayaking Association secretary Pankaj Kumar Jyoti.
