DDA okays integrated sports promotion policy

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) on Wednesday said that it had approved seven sites across Dwarka, Rohini and Narela for the development of sports facilities.

The urban body also said that free utilisation of the DDA sports complexes will be made available to those who have secured the first, second and third positions in national and international events.

In a Sports Management Board (SMB) meeting, chaired by Delhi Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal, the DDA said that it had “for the first time” approved an integrated sports promotion policy. “Facilities like football, cricket and hockey grounds, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts and skating rinks would be developed at these sites as there is a huge demand for these sports facilities,” the DDA said.

For ‘rural youth’

Additionally, it will also be developing sports facilities for the “rural youth”.

“Facilities for sports popular amongst rural youth like wrestling, boxing, weightlifting, kabaddi, shooting and archery would also be provided at some of the sites,” read the statement.

The DDA, further, said that lands which could not be developed for their intended purposes would be identified for the development of recreating facilities that would also facilitate public utilisation and prevent encroachments.

In a bid to promote self defence, the body said that it would organise free self-defence training camps for girls and women.

Approach SAI

It is also planning to approach the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for the utilisation of the sports facilities.

“The DDA would approach the SAI for organising regional, national and international-level tournaments and championships. Facilities at all DDA sports complexes during non-peak hours would be utilised for conducting school-level competitions throughout the year,” said the urban body.

“Proposals have been invited from eminent coaches to provide coaching in various sports disciplines at DDA sports complexes. Apart from regular coaching, eminent sportspersons would be engaged for periodic coaching camps,” added the statement.

The DDA, further, said that coaching agencies will be engaged for the utilisation of the facilities by schoolchildren during non-peak hours.

“Presently, 10% coaching for EWS category is mandatory in coaching contracts. The policy was amended for coaches to train more trainees in this category. The DDA would provide kit for the EWS trainees,” added the urban body.