Sarika Kachhap, a physical education teacher of Devi Public School (Bariatu), in-charge of the tennis stadium here, knows the value of the huge Stadiums that have been constructed in the capital city for the 34th National Games beginning here on Saturday.
Training her wards on open grounds with no proper facilities would have vexed her no end.
The infrastructure, she said was a boon for the athletes of the State. “We are really proud to host the Games,” she said.
“We didn't have a proper training ground earlier. Now we can regularly come and train. I feel very happy for the new generation,” she said.
The sportsmen and women from different States, who are here to participate will enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Nitin Kulkarni, the official spokesperson of the Games, said, “the preparations are in full swing. The tickets have been sold out for the Opening Ceremony. The venues are getting decked up,” he said.
Biggest challenge
The biggest challenge, Kulkarni said, had been holding the Games.
“They have been postponed six times. Even seven days ago, if somebody had said the Games would take place, nobody would have believed it. The final decision to hold the Games was taken on December 4 last year. Most of the work was completed in the last two-and-a-half months,” he said.
The Opening Ceremony scheduled to be held in the evening at the Birsa Munda athletics stadium — with a seating capacity of 31,000 — will be a gala show.
Inaugural function
The inaugural function, running for three hours, will begin with a short introduction on Birsa Munda, a legendary warrior of Jharkhand. Munda (1875-1900), fought against the British for independence.
It will be followed by Jharkhand's folk dance and actors from the film industry too will perform.
Towards the end, there will be a Laser show on reputed sportspersons Jharkhand has produced.
Around 3,000 personnel from the Jharkhand Armed Police has been deployed for the Games.
Jharkhand Governor M.O.H. Farook will inaugurate the Games in the presence of Chief Minister Arjun Munda, Deputy CM Sudesh Mahto and Indian Olympic Association President Suresh Kalmadi.
Events begin on Sunday with hockey, volleyball, aquatics, rowing, football (women) and equestrian.
