UP Govt Eases Rules For International Athletes; Competition, Training Period To Count As 'On Duty'

Following the cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Suresh Khanna stated that until now, there was no clear provision for this in the 'International Medal Winners Direct Recruitment Rules-2022'. Due to the absence of leave-related provisions in the service rules, athletes encountered difficulties in the permission process for participating in competitions and training camps. 

Khanna said that the government is now implementing a new system, in which it will be clearly stipulated that whenever an appointed athlete participates in any national/international competition, camp, or training programme, that period will be considered as a service period (on duty). 

The initiative will not only give athletes the opportunity to advance in their sporting careers but will also strengthen the state's representation, as they will no longer face any obstacles in obtaining permission. 

The Yogi cabinet has also approved the MoU with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for the operation, management, and maintenance of the under-construction Dr Sampurnanand Sports Stadium, Sigra, in Varanasi, and for the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence. 

Under the MoU, the sports facilities within the stadium complex, such as buildings, structures, grounds, and other infrastructure, will be handed over to SAI, so that the National Centre of Excellence can be established and operated smoothly. 

The Finance Minister stated that after it becomes a National Centre of Excellence, the state's emerging athletes will get a major platform. Talented athletes from various age groups and sports disciplines will be identified and provided with high-level training for national and international competitions. This will not only provide a strong impetus to Uttar Pradesh's sporting talent but will also further strengthen the state's representation at the international level. 

The government believes that this initiative will increase the prospects of both employment and a sporting career for athletes in the future, and Varanasi will also emerge as one of the country's leading sports hubs.