KalingaTV News Network
New Delhi: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has cleared as many as 734 athletes for a scholarship programme under Khelo India Talent Identification Development scheme.
The names were finalised by SAI’s High Powered Committee (HPC) after due diligence. A Talent Identification Committee was formed earlier, comprising Arjuna Awardees and Dronacharya Awardees, to shortlist and propose the names of the beneficiaries to the High Powered Committee.
An annual stipend of Rs 1.2 lakhs will be given to the players on a quarterly basis to meet their out of pocket expenses, treating injuries and other expenses.
Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore said transformational changes have been introduced into Indian sports.
“Catch them young is no longer a slogan but is visible in our action. We are developing a sports system that connects local potential to global podiums, that encourages every Indian to have sports as a part of their lives for entertainment, education or excellence,” the Minister said.
In another major step in the direction of growth of sports, various private, State and SAI academies have been accredited along with 21 non-SAI academies.
Ms Kalinga