Published: April 26, 2026 at 10:55 am
Sports development can be achieved in a comprehensive manner only when, along with the Central and state governments, public participation, sports associations, voluntary organizations, and corporate institutions collectively contribute, said Telangana youth and sports minister Vakiti Srihari at the three-day Chintan Shivir in Srinagar.
The three-day Chintan Shivir 2026 commenced on Friday in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Representing Telangana, Srihari, special chief secretary Jayesh Ranjan, sports advisor A P Jitender Reddy, Sports Authority of Telangana chairman Shivasena Reddy, and MD Dr A Sonibala Devi, and eminent sportspersons including Pullela Gopichand and Gagan Narang, are attending the event.
The event is being held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC). Key topics discussed during the sessions include: Medal strategy-Khelo India Mission, Khelo Bharat Niti: strengthening Centre-State coordination, clean and safe sports, talent identification and development.
Telangana sports minister Vakiti Srihari, special chief secretary Jayesh Ranjan, sports advisor A P Jitender Reddy, Sports Authority of Telangana chairman Shivasena Reddy, SATG MD Dr A Sonibala Devi, and eminent sportspersons including Pullela Gopichand and Gagan Narang, are attending the three-day Chintan Shivar in Srinagar
Telangana implementing central sports schemes
Speaking at the session, Srihari emphasized that a strong sporting ecosystem in the country requires coordinated efforts between the Central and State Governments. He stated that future action plans should focus on bringing pride and recognition to the nation through sports.
The minister highlighted that over the past two-and-a-half years, the Telangana government has not only successfully implemented Central government schemes but has also introduced several impactful initiatives that have enhanced the state’s reputation in sports.
He further mentioned that, in line with the vision of chief minister Revanth Reddy to make Hyderabad a hub for sports, the sports department has launched innovative programs. These initiatives aim to identify and nurture talent from the grassroots level, with the successful events of CM Cup 2024 and 2025 serving as prime examples.
He also noted that Telangana has been effectively implementing flagship programs such as Khelo India, National Sports Day celebrations, “Sunday on Cycling,” and initiatives to honor Olympic medalists.
