In a dynamic exchange of ideas at the Sportz Planet Game Changer Summit 2023, a distinguished panel of experts shed light on the pivotal role infrastructure plays in shaping the future of sports in India. The diverse panel comprised of:
- Aswini Sahoo, a Consultant at the National Sports Development Fund under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
- Aditya Kedia, Founder of FitBuds
- Jayshankar Arunachalam, National Head of Technical Solutions and Sales at Myrtha Pools Arindam Paul, CEO of Hindustan Football Club
The discussion delved into multifaceted aspects, ranging from privatization and community involvement to envisioning India as a global sports infrastructure hub.
Infrastructure: The Backbone of Sports
The crux of the discussion revolved around the unanimous acknowledgment of infrastructure as the foundation of sporting success. The panelists emphasized that investing in cutting-edge facilities is non-negotiable for nurturing world-class athletes.
Privatization and Community Involvement
A recurrent theme was the need for privatization and active community participation in developing and maintaining sports infrastructure.The panel members stressed the importance of fostering a sense of ownership among the Indian community. The consensus was clear: a collective effort is important to realize the full potential of sports infrastructure.
Vision: India as a Global Sports Infrastructure Hub
A bold vision was expressed during the panel discussion — the transformation of India into a global powerhouse for sports infrastructure. The panelists envisioned a scenario where overseas athletes would visit Indian facilities for training, challenging the traditional trend of Indian athletes seeking training abroad.
Government Practices for Optimal Utilization
The role of the government was discussed, with panelists urging for the adoption of practices that optimize the utilization of sports infrastructure. They emphasized the need for strategic policies that use the full potential of existing resources.
Suggestions for Successful Ventures
The panelists, drawing from their diverse expertise, offered interesting suggestions to convert the enhancement of sports infrastructure into successful ventures benefiting Indian athletes. The panelists highlighted the importance of sustainable models that integrate sports infrastructure development with long-term athlete growth.
Highly Skilled Technical Experts in Sports Infrastructure
Recognizing the significance of technical expertise, the discussion highlighted the critical need for high-skilled professionals in the field of sports infrastructure. The consensus was that the presence of experts would not only elevate the quality of facilities but also contribute to the overall development of sports in the country.
Optimum Utilization of Real Estate through Commercialization
Commercialization emerged as a key strategy for making optimal use of real estate for sports infrastructure. The panelists stressed the potential for creating sustainable revenue streams by leveraging commercial opportunities associated with sports facilities, thereby ensuring their longevity and maintenance.
Grassroots Development: Starting from Schools and Villages
A shared sentiment among the panelists was the move to initiate sports infrastructure development at the grassroots level, beginning with schools and villages. The consensus was that identifying and nurturing talent from an early age lays the foundation for a positive sports culture in the country.
In conclusion, this panel discussion highlighted the transformative potential of strategic investments in sports infrastructure. From envisioning India as a global sports hub to advocating for community participation and emphasizing grassroots development, the panelists provided a roadmap for unlocking the full potential of sports in the nation. As the dialogue continues, it is clear that a collaborative, forward-thinking approach is essential to elevate India’s standing on the global sports stage.
