Launch of ‘Viksit Maharashtra 2047 – Youth and Sports Dialogue’ from Nagpur

Eminent personalities from the sports sector interacted directly with Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate

Nagpur, Sept 2025: At the very first ‘Viksit Maharashtra 2047 – Youth and Sports Dialogue’ held today at the Divisional Sports Complex, an unusual sight was witnessed – national archer Jay Thembale from Ashti, Gadchiroli, directly appealed to Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate for essential equipment and facilities needed for international competitions. Taking note, the Minister instructed that such facilities be provided to Jay and other players through the district sports complex. Listening to the suggestions of coaches, organizers, parents, referees, and differently-abled players, the Minister assured that these valuable inputs would be incorporated into the state’s upcoming Sports Policy.

The initiative, organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Services, Pune, aims to collect vital suggestions for the development of the sports sector across Maharashtra. The Nagpur divisional dialogue was held at the Divisional Sports Complex, Mankapur.

Players, coaches, organizers, referees, and representatives of sports associations from six districts of Nagpur division enthusiastically participated, placing their views and suggestions directly before the Sports Minister. The dialogue, lasting a continuous four hours without a break, facilitated direct communication between the government and beneficiaries. At the outset, Minister Kokate explained that this exercise intends to listen to all stakeholders in sports and youth welfare so as to frame a comprehensive policy for the state.

The session began with Sarojit Mandal, squash organizer from Gadchiroli, suggesting annual government funding for players’ travel and accommodation allowances. Geeta Hinge, head of Aadhar Vishva Foundation, emphasized the need for government-supported counseling services for youth. Rajesh Naidu, veteran player from Chandrapur and recipient of the Shiv Chhatrapati Award, suggested reinstating the prestigious award. Piyush Ambulkar, sports organizer from Nagpur, called for increased funding for tournaments and higher honorariums for coaches and players. International para-cricketer Gurudas Raut demanded a dedicated sports complex for the differently-abled within divisional facilities, as well as priority for them in government jobs and awards.

Minister Kokate responded positively to each suggestion, assuring early action. He revealed that government decisions on four to five issues raised would be issued soon. He also announced that nearly 1,000 vacant posts in the sports department would be filled once the roster process concludes. The Minister further underlined ongoing efforts to mobilize funds for sports development from the corporate sector under CSR initiatives.

Three to four representatives from each district presented their suggestions during the dialogue. Informing the gathering, Sudhir More, Joint Director of Sports and Youth Services, said that after Nagpur, similar dialogues will be organized in other divisions of the state. He also briefed participants on the state’s first sports policy, sports academies, complexes, awards, and initiatives like Mission Lakshyavedh.

Among those present were Pallavi Dhatark, In-charge Deputy Director of Sports, district sports officers of the division, international chess player Divya Deshmukh, and other selected international sportspersons from various disciplines.