Ranchi: Chief minister Hemant Soren, during a surprise inspection of the Tikait Umrao Singh Shooting Range at Khelgaon on Monday, expressed strong displeasure over the poor maintenance of the facility.The CM, along with sports and youth affairs minister Sudivya Kumar, visited the sports facility and reviewed the maintenance of the 10m, 25m and 50m shooting ranges, as well as the condition of the infrastructure, shooting equipment and safety standards followed for athletes. However, he did not find the facilities up to the mark and directed sports department officials to take corrective measures.He also examined the training provided to shooters, practice facilities and the availability of modern equipment.Following the inspection, Hemant said many players from Jharkhand had brought laurels to the state by showcasing their talent at national and international events.“It is our duty to provide them with world-class training and modern equipment so that they continue to excel and represent the state at various sporting events. The facility has the potential and resources to prepare athletes for participation at the international level. Once the infrastructure and arrangements are upgraded in accordance with the prescribed standards, shooters will be better equipped to compete at national and international events, showcase their talent and bring laurels to the state,” he said.Later, during a review meeting of the sports department’s activities, he directed officials to prepare a roadmap for establishing a sports university in the state.He also instructed officials to invite eminent sports personalities to visit Jharkhand and arrange exposure visits for athletes and coaches from the state to leading sports training centres in other states to enhance their skills and improve their performance.The CM further directed officials to prepare a database of sportspersons from economically weaker backgrounds and formulate schemes to provide them with financial assistance.
