Bastar. To give a new identity to the sporting talent of Bastar's children, the Sports and Youth Welfare Department will soon open the first residential sports academy in Jagdalpur. This academy will provide specialized training in athletics, football, and archery. The department has accelerated preparations, and trials will soon be held to select players.

Tanuja Salam, Director of the Sports and Youth Welfare Department, arrived in Jagdalpur on Saturday to review preparations for the proposed academy. She met with sports officials and reviewed the existing sports infrastructure, hostels, dining arrangements, sports equipment, and other facilities. She also inspected the proposed academy building and directed them to create a better environment for the players.

Officials said this will be the first residential sports academy in the Bastar region, where players will receive high-level coaching along with modern facilities. Selected players will receive accommodation, diet, education, sports kits, insurance, medical facilities, and the opportunity to participate in national-level competitions.

According to the department, an advertisement for admission to the academy will be released soon. Male athletes aged 13 to 17 will be eligible to participate in the selection trials. Twenty players will be selected in athletics, 25 in football, and 20 in archery.

Director Salam said that Bastar has no shortage of athletic talent. The children here have natural abilities, which simply need proper training and facilities. With the academy's opening, players from the region will be able to perform better at the state and national levels.

During the visit, he also inspected the hockey center at the Khelo India Mini Center, Pandripani. He inspected the hostel, gym, and available sports facilities, interacted with the players, and gathered feedback on the training and facilities.