IMPHAL, 20 JAN 2025 : Amid concerns over expenditure issues for Manipur’s athletes participating in the upcoming 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, YAS Minister K. Govindas chaired a review meeting on Monday with representatives from various sports associations.
The meeting, held at the Old Secretariat conference hall in Imphal, was also attended by YAS officials and media personnel.
The 38th National Games are scheduled to take place from January 28 to February 14 in Uttarakhand.
During the meeting, it was decided that travel expenses and allowances for players and officials would be disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) directly to their respective associations or individual accounts. This marks a shift from the earlier plan to route funds through the Manipur Olympic Association (MOA), which is reportedly facing internal disputes.
Discrepancies in the number of players and officials proposed by the MOA were flagged, leading the Minister to assert that final decisions would be based on data provided by the associations. Stressing the importance of transparency and accountability, Minister Govindas emphasized the need to send only genuine athletes, stating that participation in the games is a matter of state pride.
He further urged associations to ensure players receive proper uniforms, kits, and other essentials in line with the MOA’s budget estimates.
“Manipur, known for producing Olympic-level athletes, must strive for maximum medal wins in the National Games,” he said, expressing hope for an outstanding performance by the state’s contingent.
