Uttarakhand Builds Grassroots Sports Legacy with Mini-Stadiums

Uttarakhand is enhancing grassroots sports facilities by constructing mini-stadiums in every block, following the success of hosting the 38th National Games. The initiative aims to build on the state’s sports achievements and foster local talent via a legacy policy utilizing international-level sports infrastructure.

The Uttarakhand government is making strides in sports development by planning to construct mini-stadiums in every block throughout the state. This initiative follows the successful hosting of the 38th National Games last year, where Uttarakhand also delivered its best performance, securing 103 medals.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced this forward-looking plan during the Assembly's budget session in Gairsain. The 2026-27 budget includes provisions for these facilities aimed at fostering sports talent from the grassroots level by utilizing the infrastructure established for the National Games.

A legacy policy is in the works to transform international-level facilities into an academy setting, focused on training young athletes. Sports Minister Rekha Arya explained that constructing each mini-stadium requires 1.18 acres of land and a budget of Rs 1.70 crore, indicating a robust investment in the state's sporting future.

(With inputs from agencies.)