Minister Sanjay Seth Urges Government for Affordable Housing Scheme for Rural Athletes

Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, urged the government to introduce a separate scheme for providing affordable housing to sportspersons, particularly those from rural areas. He highlighted the housing challenges faced by rural athletes who relocate to cities for training while speaking during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha.

Seth called for a dedicated housing scheme similar to the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, emphasizing the need for affordable accommodation in every district to facilitate better training opportunities. He also wished success to the 117 Indian athletes participating in the Paris Olympics 2024.

Seth lauded the government’s efforts since 2014 to boost sports infrastructure and training facilities. He mentioned key initiatives such as the inclusion of sports as a subject in the National Education Policy, the establishment of India’s first national sports university in Manipur, and the development of sports infrastructure in rural areas under the Khelo India scheme.

“As a result, talent from rural areas is making strides at national and international levels,” he noted, pointing out the ongoing efforts to set up stadiums and sports complexes in every district. The minister’s remarks come as India prepares for its largest-ever Olympic contingent, with expectations running high for the country’s performance in Paris.