AP Seeks ₹1,106 Crore for Sports Infrastructure Under Khelo India: SAAP Chairman Meets Union Minister

New Delhi:Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) Chairman Ravi Naidu continued his Delhi tour on the second day and met Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to discuss sports development initiatives in the state.

The meeting was held in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and Amalapuram MP G.M. Harish Balayogi. During the discussion, the delegation highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure and promote sporting talent across Andhra Pradesh.

They requested the Central Government to sanction funds under the Khelo India infrastructure scheme for several proposed sports projects in the state. The proposals include the development of projects in Amalapuram, Eluru, Tirupati, Visakhapatnam, Kuppam, Kurnool, Vijayawada, Machilipatnam, and Guntur.

The state has sought ₹1,106 crore for 53 sports infrastructure projects aimed at expanding training facilities and improving opportunities for athletes.

Among the key proposals was a request to establish archery ranges in all 28 districts of Andhra Pradesh to promote the sport at the grassroots level. The delegation also sought approval for water sports centres at Machilipatnam, Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam, and Suryalanka Beach near Tirupati to strengthen coastal sports tourism.

Additionally, the state proposed the establishment of a state-level para sports centre in Visakhapatnam to support athletes with disabilities.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya responded positively to the proposals and assured the delegation that the requests would be examined for further action.

SAAP Managing Director Bharani also participated in the meeting.