BHOPAL: The water sports infrastructure and activities in the state capital have impressed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). During his recent visit to Lower Lake and Upper Lake, IOA president Narendra Batra rated the facilities as one of the best in India and hoped that several events and camps will be organised in the state capital.
During the visit, Batra said that Bhopal has become an important water sports centre in the country. “Bhopal has made a mark in water sports. I wish to see Bhopal reaching a new height in the water sports activities,” said Batra during the visit at Lower Lake. IOA’s executive member BS Kushwaha and secretary general (Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association), Prashant Kushwaha were present on the occasion.
Batra interacted with the players at the Madhya Pradesh Kayaking and Canoeing Association (MPKCA) centre at Lower Lake. He also asked about the activities being undertaken at the centre. He said that all possible support will be given as the centre has produced several national and international players.
Secretary general, IKCA, Prashant Ksuhwaha said, “This is a big thing that IOA president Batra praised the activities of the water sports in Bhopal. We have done a lot of work in Bhopal and other parts of Madhya Pradesh. We will conduct more national camps and national championships in Bhopal.”
IOA executive member, BS Kushwaha said, “Bhopal has emerged as an important centre and recognizing it IOA president Batra has given special focus on water sports in Bhopal.”
For the first time, water sports players from seven countries will showcase their talent at Bhopal’s Upper Lake later this year. BIMSTEC Youth Water Sports Competition will be organised in Bhopal. In this regard, a high-level meeting of the state level implementation committee was recently organised. Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and India will participate in the BIMSTEC water sports competition.