The budget allocation of a meagre Rs. 45 crore for sports and youth services has not gone down well with the sports fraternity in the State.
Sports administrators, who were keen on constructing quality playfields and stadiums were shell-shocked to learn that the money allotted was a pittance.
Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) Chairman P.R. Mohan said though the allotment was far better compared to those made by previous governments, the Finance Minister could have been a little liberal.
“We will certainly make a representation and bring it to the notice of the Chief Minister,” he added. Andhra Pradesh Badminton Association secretary K. Ch. Punnaiah Chowdary said the budget was a big disappointment. “Andhra Pradesh will not witness any major infrastructure boost. Bifurcation has cut the wings of sportsmen, as the best of facilities went to Telangana. We expected much from Mr. Chandrababu Naidu, but he has sidelined us,” he said.
“Out of the Rs. 45 crore, a sum of Rs. 5 crore will go for salaries. The standard of sportsmen will nosedive, as there will be no funds to send them abroad for professional training,” he added.
AP Table Tennis Association secretary S.M. Sultan said henceforth the State sports associations would depend more on national federations.
“The very existence of the Sports Ministry is a waste. Sports can be administrated by a Principal Secretary. We can forget hosting premier national and international tournaments,” he added. AP Archery Association secretary Ch. Satyanarayana said: “A minimum of Rs. 400 crore is required to organise sports events in the State,” he felt.
