(a) whether the Government propose to formulate any scheme with a view to identify promising sports persons in rural areas and to develop their competence;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) by when said schemes is likely to be implemented?
(a) whether the Government propose to formulate any scheme with a view to identify promising sports persons in rural areas and to develop their competence;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) by when said schemes is likely to be implemented?
THE MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS (SHRI SUNIL DUTT)
(a) to (c): With a view to broadbasing games and sports and tap the hidden talent in rural areas, Govt. of India is implementing a scheme named ` Rural Sports Programme` since 1970-71. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided to States for conducting District and State level rural sports tournaments. A National level rural sports tournament and a North East sports festival are also organized under the aegis of the Sports Authority of India. Besides, Sports Authority of India is also implementing schemes titled National Sports Talent Contest Scheme and Special Area Games, under which children between the age group of 8-14 years and youth between the age group of 14-21 years are selected through a scientifically designed battery of tests at block, district and regional level trials.