Approval granted for construction of Olympic-standard

synthetic track at Punjab University; positive assurances received on ABVP's

suggestions for developing a robust sports culture

Union Minister praises ABVP's 'Sports Equipment Bank' initiative,

Assures Swift Action

Lucknow, 07 June (HS): A delegation of the Akhil Bharatiya

Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), led by the National General Secretary, Dr. Virendra

Singh Solanki, submitted a memorandum to the Union Minister for Youth Affairs

and Sports, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, on Saturday evening (June 6, 2026). The

memorandum presented a series of suggestions aimed at promoting sports culture

across the country, empowering youth, and safeguarding the interests of

athletes.

The memorandum proposed the development of a comprehensive

national framework for India's preparations for the 2036 Olympic Games, the

establishment of Sports Universities in every state, the creation of Centres of

Excellence and Multi-Sports Complexes in every district, talent identification

initiatives in rural and tribal regions, health and accident insurance coverage

for athletes, the establishment of Sports Equipment Banks, the launch of a

National Digital Athlete Portal, and an increase in the honorarium for MY

Bharat volunteers, among several other significant recommendations.

One of the key outcomes of the discussion was the

long-standing demand raised by ABVP and the Panjab University Students’ Union

for the construction of an Olympic-standard synthetic athletic track at Panjab

University. Union Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya informed the delegation that

the proposal has been accepted and that the process for its implementation is

being taken forward. It was further conveyed during the discussion that

substantial progress on the project is expected within the next two to three

months.

The Union Minister also appreciated ABVP’s suggestion to

establish ‘Sports Equipment Banks’ in rural areas and assured the delegation

that positive steps would be taken in this direction in the near future.

Speaking on the occasion, ABVP National General Secretary

Dr. Virendra Singh Solanki stated: India’s youth constitute the nation’s

greatest strength and will play a decisive role in the realization of a

Developed India. If modern sports infrastructure, scientific training, quality

coaching, equal opportunities, and effective protection of athletes’ interests

are ensured, India can rapidly progress towards becoming a global sporting

powerhouse. Sports are not merely a means of winning medals; they are also a

powerful instrument for fostering discipline, leadership, self-confidence, and

a spirit of nationalism among the youth.

The Hon’ble Sports Minister provided constructive guidance

to the delegation and informed us about the initiatives already being

undertaken by the Government on most of the issues raised in the memorandum. He

also assured serious consideration and necessary action on the remaining

suggestions. ABVP welcomes these positive assurances and remains hopeful that

timely and effective decisions on these matters will further strengthen sports

culture in the country and create a robust foundation for the holistic

development of athletes and youth.”

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi