(a) whether the National Games 2005 will be held at Guwahati as per the schedule;
(b) if so, the budget for the event and the share of the State Government of Assam therein;
(c) whether the development of infrastructure will be undertaken by the Union Government in addition to providing funds for the event;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)
(a) The State Government of Assam has informed that the 33rd National Games, which were scheduled to be held from 12th to 23rd November, 2005, are likely to be held at a later date due to non-completion of infrastructure, including Games Village.
(b) The Government of Assam has indicated Rs.251.40 crores as the total requirement of funds for preparation & conduct of National Games. The State Government has, so far released Rs.54.68 crores for this purpose.
(c) to (e) : It is the responsibility of the State Government to develop Sports infrastructure in the State. However, Government had approved central assistance of Rs.3.91 crores and released advance grant of Rs.11.00 lakhs for a State level sports complex at Guwahati where the National Games are proposed to be held. In addition, out of an estimated cost of Rs.139.45 crores for infrastructure development, Government of India has released Rs.119.11 crores through DONER and Planning Commission. Besides, Rs.5.00 crores has been sanctioned to Government of Assam for conduct and purchase of equipments.