Sports must for holistic development, says CM Nayab Saini
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has said sports are being made compulsory at the school level across the state to ensure holistic development of children from an early age.
He said a resolution has been made to provide medical insurance cover of Rs 20 lakh to every player in the state.
He was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the third All-India Shiv Kumar Memorial Basketball Competition at Kiloi village in Rohtak district today.
He also announced a grant of Rs 21 lakh for development works at the Shiv Kumar Smriti Stadium, the construction of a Mahila Chaupal in the village, and assured that various other local demands would be fulfilled soon.
Saini said under the ‘Haryana Utkrisht Khiladi Seva Niyam 2021′, 550 new posts have been created in the Sports Department and 224 sportspersons have already been appointed to government jobs.
The policy also includes reservation for athletes in direct recruitment for Class-I to Class-III posts, he added.
“Haryana is the first state in the country to offer the highest cash rewards to medal-winning athletes. So far, cash prizes totalling Rs 593 crore have been distributed among athletes in the state. In addition, honorariums are being provided to 298 athletes in recognition of their outstanding performances," he said.
He further said the land of Haryana has always been known as the land of heroes, athletes, and hardworking farmers.
“From every village in Haryana, sports talent continues to emerge — talent that has not only made the state proud but has also brought glory to India on the international stage. Whether it is wrestling, boxing, hockey, or basketball, the sons and daughters of Haryana have consistently showcased their excellence across all arenas,” he said.
Women from 101 households brought milk for the Chief Minister, who drank it directly from a bucket.
“This is our culture,” said Saini, emphasising the nurturing and selfless role of mothers in society.
Talking to reporters, Saini said the Wakf Amendment Bill would benefit the Muslims and only those who indulged in vote-bank politics were opposing it.
Regarding the Congress’ protest at the Enforcement Directorate office, the Chief Minister said the case had been going on for a long time and there was no point in protesting.
Rajya Sabha MP Ram Chander Jangra, Kharkhoda MLA Pawan Kharkhoda, Rohtak Mayor Ram Avatar Valmiki and other BJP leaders were present.
Haryana Tribune