PORVORIM: Opposition MLAs on Wednesday grilled Sports Minister Govind Gaude regarding the delay in disbursement of prize money for the winners of the Paralympics held in Paris last year. Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai emphasized that Paralympics are meant for disabled athletes and pressed for proper coaching, travel allowances for athletes and attendants, and a hike in the kit allowance, which currently stands at a meager Rs 2,000.
Gaude responded by assuring that both the Paralympic winners and Goan participants in the National Games would receive their prize money before ensuing Ganesh Chaturthi. “Procedures are being followed in this regard to disburse the prize money as soon as possible. It will be given before Ganesh Chaturthi festival this year,” he said.
When questioned about the lack of recognition for the Paralympics Association by the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG), Gaude explained that the registration process was in its final stages. “In the absence of recognition, it was difficult for the government to release grants-in-aid to them,” he explained.
“If any sportsperson from Goa is selected to represent the country in the Paralympics this year, the state government will provide him/her all the support,” he said.
Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar sought to know if the government had identified and chosen athletes to participate in this year’s Paralympics, noting that the event is only 3-4 months away. The Minister replied that the selection of sportspersons is done at the national level.
BJP MLAs criticise Gaude for inadequate facilities at Navelim indoor stadium
PORVORIM: Sports Minister Govind Gaude faced tough questions from ruling MLAs Ulhas Tuenkar (Navelim) and Digambar Kamat (Margao) regarding the lack of essential facilities at the Rs 43 crore Navelim indoor stadium. The issues raised included the absence of air conditioning, canteen services, and security at the newly constructed stadium.
Athletes experienced discomfort due to the heat during the National Games, with only makeshift arrangements made by bringing in fans, Gaude admitted.
Tuenkar highlighted the absence of basic amenities, stating, "There are no canteen facilities. Not even a bottle of water was available since there is no canteen. There is also a risk of theft as there is no security guard."
Digambar Kamat, who frequents the indoor stadium for his morning walks, emphasised the necessity of air conditioning. “It is very hot inside the stadium since there is no AC. All modern indoor stadia have air conditioning," he noted. "The government should ensure that the canteen operates from 6 am onwards to cater to morning walkers. This would also be economically viable for him,” he added.
Curchorem MLA Nilesh Cabral suggested the installation of large fans to mitigate the heat issue.
In response, Gaude assured that he would explore the possibility of installing large fans. He also promised to consider the installation of air conditioning, starting a canteen, and other concerns raised by the MLAs.