World class infrastructure to be developed for National Games: CM

Panaji, Sep 15 (UNI) Goa will develop world-class infrastructure for the proposed 36th National Games 2011, keeping in mind that the facilities will also attract international and domestic toursts to the state in the long run, Chief Minister Digamber Kamat said.

He made this observation after signing the host city contract of the National Games 2011 here last night. Indian Olympics Association (IOA) President Suresh Kalmadi, its general secretary Randhir Singh, Goa Sports Minister Manohar Azgaonkar, Sports secretary Dr D M Mudassir, Goa Olympic Association (GOA) president Subhash Shirodkar and secretary Gurudatta Bhakta signed the contract.

The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had endorsed his support to Goa in hosting the Games and also directed the Planning Commission to clear the funds expeditely.

Kamat assured Kalmadi that the event will be a memorable one for everyone.

Kalmadi said the hosting of the Games would change the sporting scenario in the state. Better infrastructure facilities will give further boost to sports in the state. He hoped that in three years time, athletes in Goa will win maximum number of medals.

The IOA President praised Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs in Goa for organising the Youth Baton Relay, which passed through Goa recently.

Azgaokar said Neura village in Tiswadi taluka had been proposed as main venue for the Games and the process of land acquisition was on. Apart from that, Peddem ground in north Goa and Fatorda in south Goa will be focal points for the events.

Around 12,000 participants, including 2,000 officials, from all over the country are expected for the Games.

Among others present on the occasion included Chief Secretary J P Singh, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Dr Susana D'Souza and Sports Authority of Goa executive director V M Prabhudesai.

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