Vijayawada: The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) has submitted proposals worth ₹1,106 crore for 53 projects under the Khelo India scheme to strengthen sports infrastructure and develop talent across the state. SAAP Chairman A. Ravi Naidu presented the proposals during a meeting with Khelo India Joint Secretary Vineel Krishna and Sports Authority of India (SAI) Executive Director Lt. Col. Sai Ashok in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The proposals focus on improving sports facilities across the state, with a special emphasis on water sports, adventure sports, and the creation of centers of excellence. A key component of the proposals is the development of water sports in Andhra Pradesh, which has a large coastline, rivers, and reservoirs. Naidu sought approval for nine water sports projects and district-level water sports centers in Machilipatnam (Nagayyalanka), Eluru (Erra Kaluva), Tirupati (Rayala Cheruvu), Nandyal (Chinna Cheruvu), Vizianagaram (Tatipudi Reservoir), Punnami Ghat in NTR district, Kakinada (Bongammavari Cheruvu), Garigepuram Cheruvu, and Gambhiram Gadda. He also proposed the establishment of a National Center of Excellence or SAI Regional Center in Daminedu near Tirupati to provide advanced training facilities to young athletes. The proposals also include sports infrastructure development in districts such as Eluru, Tirupati, Visakhapatnam, Kuppam, Kurnool, Vijayawada, Machilipatnam, and Amalapuram. Naidu also suggested organizing an international adventure sports event, the “100 Miles Araku Valley International Trail,” to promote sports and tourism in the Araku Valley region. Sources said SAI Executive Director Lt. Col. Sai Ashok responded positively to the proposals. SAAP Managing Director Bharani accompanied Ravi Naidu during the talks.
Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh submitted proposals worth ₹1,106 crore under Khelo India.
