Over 300-strong contingent to represent Manipur in 38th National Games

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jan 21: Manipur is sending over 300-strong contingent to represent the State in the 38th National Games to be held in Uttarakhand from January 28.
The State is likely to send 351 sportspersons for the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand. However, there may be few changes in the number, said Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam.
The Minister confirmed this after a joint meeting with representatives of different sports associations at the conference hall of the Old Secretariat yesterday.
During the meeting yesterday, the Minister, top officials of YAS and representatives of sports associations discussed a wide range of issues.
The Manipur Olympic Association submitted a budget estimate of Rs 2.81 crore for the games, and urged the Minister to disburse funds for fares and other assistance in time.
The associations urged the Minister to timely release funds for 21-day residential camp, diet allowances, competition allowances, equipment transportation charge.
They also urged the Minister to distribute adequate numbers of quality kits for the players representing the Games.
There were no adequate kits for players in the previous Games and the kits/dress were of substandard quality, they claimed.
The Minister assured the associations to forward their proposals and discuss them with the Chief Minister.
Assuring time release of funds for fares, allowances and all possible assistance, the Minister clarified on issues surrounding the previous 37th National Games.
Refuting allegations regarding irregularities, the Minister said the Department received a proposal for Rs 2.85 crore in the 37th National Games. After all expenditures, the Department is left with Rs 1 crore, he added.
Assuring all assistance, the Minister urged the sports associations and players to keep morale high and give their best in the Games to bring more medals and laurels for the State.