In the wake of poor management of National Para Athletics championships, the Sports Ministry has instructed all the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to draw the calendar of their events well in advance for the smooth and efficient hosting of the tournaments.
“The primary responsibility for organising the events rests with the NSFs. It is incumbent upon them to take all measures for smooth conduct of the championships with a vision to empower the athletes to reach their optimum potential,” a Sports Ministry release stated.
As per the existing guidelines of the government, it is mandatory for all NSFs to conduct national championships every year for senior, junior and sub-junior categories. But from time to time the Ministry has been receiving complaints from various quarters regarding the basic minimum facilities not being provided to sportspersons during the various championships conducted by NSFs.
As a result the Ministry has decided to issues certain guidelines on the conduct of various tournaments. “All NSFs are directed to adopt a few measures for organising tournaments, as the responsibility lies with the NSFs for their organisation, supervision and conduct in every aspect,” said the release.
The guideline says that the tournaments/championships should be held in such stadia, indoor halls, which are easily accessible to the athletes. In case, the event is for differently-abled athletes, the facilities should be disabled-friendly and all the basic facilities should be available for sportspersons.
It further says that proper resting place should be arranged so that the athletes can rest during the break time, clean drinking water should be provided and snacks should be made available.