Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, paid a surprise visit to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Sports Training Center (STC) in Agartala as part of the ‘Poorvottar Sampark Setu’ initiative. Her visit focused on evaluating the center’s infrastructure and the progress of athletes under training.
She emphasized the importance of a Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) approach for grooming sporting talent from grassroots to elite levels. The visit reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to fostering a robust sports ecosystem in Tripura, especially through Khelo India and SAI efforts.
The STC in Agartala is a key center for gymnastics, where young athletes undergo rigorous training. Smt. Khadse carefully reviewed the training facilities, athlete hostels, dietary services, and psychological support systems. She also interacted directly with the athletes, listening to their goals and challenges.
In her remarks, she said, “The future of India lies with these young individuals. The central government stands firmly with them, committed to their success.”
The Minister’s visit was part of a larger review covering various development sectors in Tripura, including youth affairs, science and technology, and education. Her focus remained on aligning the region’s growth with the national vision of ‘India@2047’.
She stressed the role of sports in achieving India’s long-term global ambitions, particularly aiming for excellence in the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games. Her message was clear—Tripura and the North-East are central to India’s sporting future.
Concluding her visit, Smt. Khadse commended the youth of Tripura for their energy and potential in both sports and science, declaring the North-East as the “backbone of India’s bright future.”
Source: PIB
