IndiaPost.com - Govt plans to spend Rs 300 cr at CWG 2010

NEW DELHI: The government proposes to spend Rs 300 crore towards training of sportspersons for the 2010 Commonwealth Games so that the country can bag a rich haul of medals on home turf. "The Planning Commission has been requested to make a budget allocation of Rs 300 crore for this purpose," the Sports Ministry said November 29in its action taken report.

Out of this fund, Rs 25 crore are proposed for 2007-08. For implementing the programme and preparing the scheme, discussions are being held with stakeholders, including National Sports Federations.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee for the Ministry had lamented that "with a shoe string budget, we will not be able to reap the benefit of 'demographic dividend', which India is poised for." Replying to the observations, the Ministry said "there should be a specific target-oriented programme for preparation of Indian contingent for the 2010 Commonwealth Games so as to have focused attention."

Overall, a budget outlay of Rs 7,108.15 crore for sports has been projected for the XI Five-Year Plan as against Rs 1145.36 crore for the X Plan. The government also proposes to raise the cash awards given to sportspersons winning medals at major international events.

"The amount of cash awards may be raised to Rs 50 lakh, Rs 25 lakh and Rs 15 lakh for top three positions in that order and the amount of the other awards enhanced by 100 per cent during the XIth Plan," the report stated.