Neeraj Chopra calls for improving sports infrastructure

Ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra urged the Indian government to install Mondotrack at the National Institute of Sports, Patiala. This shock-absorbing surface, which enhances performance and reduces injuries, is seen as a key factor in international sports. Chopra emphasized the need for more grassroots stadiums and updated facilities.

During a high-profile meeting discussing the draft National Sports Governance Bill, celebrated Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra proposed an urgent call for action from the government. Chopra passionately advocated for the installation of a ‘Mondotrack’ at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala, underscoring its importance for athlete performance and injury prevention.

The ‘Mondotrack’, a modern track surface, is renowned for its shock-absorbing, fatigue-reducing properties that maintain stride-length and rhythm. Used in the recent Paris Olympics and the Diamond League finals, this surface has received acclaim from international athletes. Currently, NIS Patiala still uses an older synthetic track made from sand, fiber, wax, and rubber.

In the meeting with sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Chopra emphasized the competitive disadvantage Indian athletes face without this track. He also highlighted the need for more grassroots stadiums and better coach awareness to align India with global sports standards, especially in light of the nation’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics.

There was a suggestion that the selection committee of the Sports Regulatory Board of India (SRBI) should be large. The SRBI shall be responsible for regulating the governance of the National Olympic Commission and National Sports Federations to ensure transparency and accountability in the management and administration of sports. The selection of SRBI members shall be made by the central government on the recommendations of a selection committee consisting of Secretary (Sports), Director General, Sports Authority of India, Vice-Chancellor, National Sports University, and one Khel Ratna and one Dronacharya awardee each.

“Since SRBI will be an important body, there should be more opinions in the selection committee of SRBI. It was suggested that there can be more experts in it,” said another participant in the meeting.

It was also suggested that the age bar of 70 for sports administrators should be removed when there is no such bar on politicians. Involvement of states was very important while topics like age fraud, etc., also needs to be covered in the bill. These were some of the inputs that came from sportspersons and coaches.

The Special General Meeting of the Indian Olympic Association, scheduled for Friday, has been postponed, IOA director George Mathew said in a message as directed by president PT Usha. Hours later, Kalyan Chaubey, signing as acting CEO, sent a letter saying that due to unavoidable circumstances the SGM has been postponed to November 10.

With Thanks Reference to:https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3132240-neeraj-chopra-advocates-for-upgrading-sports-infrastructure-in-india and https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/others/neeraj-chopra-calls-for-improving-sports-infrastructure-101729703515997.html