Sports Secretary Calls for Enhanced Athlete Training in Imphal to Bridge India’s Sports Gaps

Summary – India’s Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao emphasizes the need for world-class athlete training facilities in Imphal to address current sports ecosystem gaps.,

Article –

India’s Sports Secretary, Hari Ranjan Rao, has spotlighted critical gaps in the nation’s sports ecosystem, calling on the National Sports University (NSU) in Imphal to intensify its efforts in training world-class athletes. This initiative aims to boost India’s global sports performance by enhancing infrastructure and nurturing talent more effectively.

Key Highlights from the Address

• Focus on Imphal: Recognized as a northeastern hub of sporting talent, Imphal is viewed as a strategic center for targeted athlete development programs.
• Infrastructure and Training: Calls for upgraded training facilities and integration of high-performance sports science to align with international standards.
• Timeline: Plans to upgrade training programs and infrastructure over the next 12 to 18 months.

Meeting and Future Plans

On January 16, 2026, at the NSU campus, Secretary Rao identified significant shortcomings in the current sports development framework and urged NSU to leverage its expertise to produce athletes who can excel on the international stage. The initiative arrives amid heightened expectations ahead of major sporting events like the Asian Games and Olympics.

Support and Reactions

NSU officials and coaching staff have expressed strong commitment towards expanding athlete training programs, appreciating the Sports Secretary’s guidance as a vital catalyst. Plans include enhanced resource allocation and the introduction of cutting-edge training technologies.

Governmental Action and Strategic Focus

1. Fresh government review of funding and strategic support for NSU.
2. Increased budgetary allocations directed at NSU facilities and programs.
3. Decentralization of sports excellence beyond traditional centers.
4. Development of a comprehensive action plan focusing on infrastructure upgrades, talent scouting, and coaching methodologies.
5. Establishment of monitoring mechanisms to evaluate athlete progress and institutional effectiveness.

Conclusion

With enhanced collaboration between the government and regional training institutions, the role of NSU in Imphal is set to become pivotal in India’s journey towards sporting excellence. The next months will be crucial in observing how these initiatives impact India’s presence on the international sports stage.

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Bhavya

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