A new Poligras Paris GT Zero hockey turf is set for SAI Centre Bengaluru, while laser target systems will replace existing electronic targets at the Karni Singh Shooting Range, as approved by the Governing Body of the Sports Authority of India (SAI). The meeting, chaired by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi, also sanctioned various infrastructure development projects nationwide.
The GB recommended procuring a Poligras Paris GT Zero hockey turf for SAI NSSC, Bengaluru, a crucial training hub for the Indian men’s and women’s national and ‘A’ hockey teams. Additionally, the decision was made to switch to laser target systems at the Karni Singh Shooting Range (KSSR), a significant training ground for India’s elite and emerging shooters.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of strengthening the Indian sports ecosystem to ensure a bright future. The decisions taken aim to provide athlete-centric infrastructure to support the achievement of medal targets for events like the Commonwealth Games and Olympics. The meeting also greenlit the construction of multipurpose halls at various SAI centers to enhance athlete training and development.
The approved projects include the construction of multipurpose halls at SAI NCOE Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, SAI NSNIS Patiala, and SAI LNCPE Trivandrum to facilitate comprehensive athlete training. These facilities will cater to various sports disciplines and provide modern amenities for sports performance, conditioning, and recovery.
Furthermore, the GB sanctioned the construction of a 400-metre, 8-lane synthetic athletics track at SAI STC Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, recognizing its importance as a key athletics training center. The committee also approved a new synthetic track at SAI CRC, Bhopal, known for producing international-level athletes, including Olympians.
