Amit Sana, the runner-up of first Indian Idol (singing reality show) will be performing at opening ceremony of 2nd South Asian Federation (SAF) Junior Athletics Championships at Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium on November 10. State tribal dances of Mundari, Oraon, Santhali and Kharia communities are also scheduled at this three day inaugural function.
Briefing these details, State sports director Dadan Chaubey said, “Bihu and Bhangra dances would be followed along with our native cultural dances. All the eight participating countries including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri lanka have confirmed their participation. They are expected to reach by November 8 or 9.”
According to sports officials, Governor Dr Syed Ahmed is expected to inaugurate the mega international event. “Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Jitendra Singh and Union Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh will be attending the closing ceremony on November 12,” an official said.
Chaubey said that the department is working on a war footing level. He said, “Bus service from Albert Ekka Chowk, Birsa Chowk, Jaipal Singh stadium and Ratu road will be provided to people who are interested in watching this athletics game.”
As about 10 sub committees consisting accommodation of the players, transportation, security by the city police, media accreditation, food and other arrangements have been framed.
Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FJCCI) as well as Jharcraft is jointly doing the branding work. State Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs secretary Vandana Dadel had already informed that athlete star PT Usha’s
lifetime achievements are to be displayed in pictures around the stadium.
The accommodation of international athletes, Athletics Federation of India selectors, dope officials, technical officials and volunteers is being done at Khelgaon flats, Hotwar’s Shahid Nirmal VVIP guest house and in best hotels of the city like Radisson Blu and Holiday Home. “Catering at Khelgaon is assigned to FJCCI,” Dadel said.
“We are alert for all time internet and phone network availability. Also, generators for 24 hours electricity are being installed. For water supply, we have already lined up with the required necessities. Hopefully, there would be no flop show this time,” said Chaubey.