The Hindu : Sport : October 13 to be observed as Kerala Sports Day

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October 13 to be observed as Kerala Sports Day

Special Correspondent

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Government has decided to observe October 13, the birthday of the founder president of the Kerala State Sports Council the late Col. G.V. Raja, as Kerala Sports Day.

Disclosing this at a press conference here on Tuesday, the Sports Minister, M. Vijayakumar said the observance of the day this year had greater significance as October 13 was the birth centenary of “Thirumeni” as the late Raja was fondly referred by sports lovers in the State.

The State-level inauguration of the various programmes to be held at the VJT hall here will be graced by the Governor, R.S. Gavai, Chief Minister, V.S. Achuthanandan, prominent athletes and officials.

Operation Olympia

The function will also witness the official launch of the revamped “Operation Olympia” scheme aimed at spotting talent in the rural areas.

Besides, cash awards to those who won laurels for the State between 2004 and 2007 will be distributed at the function.

Over 1,200 athletes will be distributed Rs.1.37 crore.

All District Sports Councils have been advised to observe the day in a befitting manner, by conducting public functions and seminars.

The Government will also provide financial assistance for the construction of a stadium, a swimming pool, a library and indoor stadium at the SMV Higher Secondary School in Poonjar, the birth place of the late Raja.

Further, the Government has also granted permission to the KSSC to establish a sports museum and a sports park in Thiruvananthapuram in memory of its founder president.

Talks are on with the Education Department officials on how best the day could be observed in schools across the State, the Minister said.

The KSSC president, T.P. Dasan and secretary, G. Kishore, were also present at the briefing.

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