Bihar Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh (right)
By Avijit Biswas
Bhagalpur: The first water sports academy of state would be established at picturesque Odhini dam in Banka district. A decision to this effect was taken in Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA) meeting held in state capital on Wednesday this week.
The state government keen on promotion of water sports in state, the decision of establishing water sports academy at Odhini dam, was taken after comparative evaluation of potential of some other dams in regards to establishment of the academy.
After thorough evaluation of potentials of Garhi Dam in Jamui district, Hardiya Dam in Nawada district, Odhini Dam in Banka district and Durgawati Dam in Sasaram district, the experts involved in the process favoured establishment of water sports academy at Odhini Dam.
The announcement regarding establishment of water sports academy at Odhini dam was made by Shreyasi Singh, sports minister in state government, following meeting of BSSA.
While announcing decision of establishing water sports academy in state, the sports minister reportedly said after recent meeting with chief minister and sports minister of Madhya Pradesh it was decided both the states would work together for all-round development of sports person beside sports promotion.
In light of the decision an expert team lead by Olympian of Canada Mr Jack was sent to Bihar by Indian Kayaking &Canoeing Association, Bhopal for selection of suitable place for establishment of proposed water sports academy, she informed. The members of the expert team included Pradeep Naidu, chief trainer and Namita, a player of international level.
Following evaluation of all the short-listed sites, the Odhini dam was found best suited for the purpose. Reportedly, the sports minster further said apart from having all potentials required for establishment of water sports academy, Odhini dam could be one of the best places where world class water sports competition could be organized in future, as per findings of expert committee.
The Olympian of Canada, leader of the expert team, will visit state again in February next year for selection of talented players and for extending assistance in creation of infrastructure required for establishment of academy, the sports minister was quoted.
As per information the proposed water sports academy of international standard will have state of the art training facilities beside residential facilities for players. Those present in BSSA meeting included Ravindra Shankaran, director general cum chief executive officer beside other officials of BSSA.
About the Author
Avijit Biswas is a former reporter with the Hindustan Times, Patna Edition, based in Bhagalpur. He has more than 20 years of experience covering politics and other key beats across eastern Bihar. Known for his in-depth ground reporting and strong grasp of regional issues, Biswas has closely followed political developments and social trends in the region, earning credibility for accurate and balanced journalism.
About the Author
