Patna panchayat sports clubs await final approval

Patna: The names of presidents, secretaries and treasurers for sports clubs proposed in every panchayat of Patna district have been sent to the sports department for approval, paving the way for rural athletes to receive organised support under the Bihar Panchayat Sports Club initiative.Launched in 2024, the scheme aims to promote grassroots sports by providing registered clubs with financial assistance and sports equipment through the sports department and Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA). However, club organisers are still awaiting final approval.District sports officer Om Prakash said the programme was launched to strengthen sporting culture and encourage healthy lifestyles across the state.“The main goal of these clubs is to back both established and emerging sports and their players in Bihar. We also want to identify and groom hidden talent in rural areas. These clubs will double as community centres for physical activity and skill development,” he said.Patna district has 314 panchayats, including 309 gram panchayats and five nagar panchayats. Private sports clubs operating in rural areas can register online through the Bihar Panchayat Sports Club portal.The scheme covers a wide range of disciplines, including football, kabaddi, volleyball, hockey, athletics, badminton, wrestling, chess, carrom, kho-kho, table tennis, basketball, boxing, sepak takraw, weightlifting, rugby and fencing.Om Prakash said BSSA would thoroughly examine every application before granting registration.“The names of the secretaries, presidents and treasurers were sent for approval from the state department about two months ago. If the club meets all required criteria, it will be officially registered by the authority,” he added.To qualify, all club members must belong to the same panchayat and be between 14 and 45 years of age. Clubs must include both male and female participants. Preference will be given to applicants actively involved in sports, while clubs with physical education teachers, coaches or national and international-level players will receive added consideration.