Goa is ready to host the 36th National Games, which were postponed several times in the past, said Chief Minister Pramod Sawant as he hosted the meeting of Goa Sports Authority on Tuesday.
Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar, Sports Secretary J. Ashok Kumar, Executive Director of Goa Sports Authority, Vasant Prabhudesai, as well as representatives of affiliated sports associations, were also present at the meeting.
Chief Minister Sawant said, "We are ready to host the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) if it fixes a new date for the National Games to be held in Goa." Sawant also talked about how the state is capable of organizing competitions and preparing facilities.
The 36th National Games were scheduled to be held in Goa in October-November last year, but due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the tournament was postponed indefinitely.
According to reports, Goa may host the National Games next year, but the IOA will have to schedule the games between next year's Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. The Coronavirus situation in the country will be important in organizing the National Games.
Sports Associations need to be more active
Manohar Ajgaonkar believes that many Sports Associations across the state need to be more active in the state. Except for a few, the work of other sports associations needs to be increased, said Ajgaonkar .
Suspension of the gymnastics association avoided
According to a source, the permanent suspension of the Goa Gymnastics Association has been halted. T he Gymnastics Association has promised to submit the required documents to the Goa Sports Authority.
However, the suspension of the Goa Progressive Wrestling Association and the Amateur Rope Skipping Association was suspended. The General Assembly granted permanent recognition to Goa Hockey Association, Goa Basketball Association and Goa Traditional Karate Association.o