The Indoor Sports Complex has been developed in response to the requirement for quality sports infrastructure at Government Arts & Science College, Tiruchuli, identified by the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Virudhunagar. The facility has been designed to support both students and members of nearby communities by providing access to advanced sports and fitness resources.
The newly developed complex includes a multipurpose indoor hall with turf suitable for various sports activities, including basketball, volleyball and badminton. It also features a fully equipped gymnasium and a dedicated board games room. Designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, the facility will serve college students as well as local residents through scheduled open-access hours and community outreach programmes.
Speaking on the occasion, G.S. Rana, Deputy Managing Director (Human Resources) and Chief Development Officer, State Bank of India, said, “This is an important milestone for State Bank of India and SBI Foundation as this state-of-the-art sports facility is dedicated to the youth of Tiruchuli. We are truly honoured by the gracious presence of Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, which adds great significance to this memorable occasion.”
The project is expected to directly benefit more than 500 college students annually and reach over 1,000 youth from surrounding villages every year through community engagement initiatives and open-access programmes. By creating sustainable sports infrastructure, the initiative aims to increase participation in sports and fitness activities, develop essential life skills, and create opportunities for talented individuals to pursue competitive sports careers.
Swapan Dhar, Managing Director, SBI Foundation, said, “SBI Foundation extends its gratitude to everyone whose support has brought this Indoor Sports Complex to life. This facility is designed to encourage youth participation, nurture grassroots talent, and strengthen the health, confidence and leadership potential of students, youth and athletes from nearby villages. We are glad to partner with the Government of India and local stakeholders on this initiative, which aims to help promising young athletes develop the skills and exposure needed to compete on national and international stages.”
The project is being implemented in partnership with Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (SSRDPT). The facility is already operational, with students using the available spaces for physical training, recreational activities and organised coaching sessions.
Through its broader sports programme, SBI Foundation continues to support both para-athletes and able-bodied athletes in their preparations for national and international sporting events, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and major national competitions such as the Khelo India Games. In line with this vision, the Indoor Sports Complex at Tiruchuli is expected to strengthen grassroots sports development in the region by enabling students and young athletes from nearby villages to access quality training facilities and pursue sporting ambitions through structured programmes.
SBI Foundation has so far supported more than 300 athletes, who have collectively secured over 650 medals at national and international levels, including achievements at the Paralympic Games and Para Asian Games. More than 40% of these medals have been won by para-athletes.
SBI Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the State Bank Group, continues its commitment towards community development under the principle of “Service Beyond Banking”. The Foundation works across key areas including rural development, healthcare, empowerment of persons with disabilities, sports, education, sustainability and environment, livelihood and skill development. Operating across 28 states and 8 union territories in India, SBI Foundation undertakes initiatives through strategic partnerships with social sector organisations to support vulnerable communities. The Foundation works to uphold the values of ethical growth, equality and improved socio-economic well-being of society.
The inauguration of the Indoor Sports Complex at Government Arts & Science College, Tiruchuli represents a major investment in youth development and community wellness, providing students and aspiring athletes with access to world-class sports infrastructure and creating a stronger foundation for future sporting achievements.
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