The newly appointed State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque called on leading corporate houses to step forward and back struggling federations and promising athletes across Bangladesh on Wednesday.
At the conference room of the National Sports Council (NSC) in Dhaka, chaired by Youth and Sports Secretary Mahbub-Ul-Alam, the meeting focused on long-term infrastructure and grassroots development plans.
The former footballer outlined what he described as a far-reaching roadmap to transform the country’s sporting landscape.
He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has placed the highest priority on sports, with special emphasis on strengthening activities from the grassroots level.
“If the ministry and corporate houses work together through mutual cooperation, Bangladesh sports will reach new heights on the global stage,” the former skipper said.
He confirmed that playground development has been given top priority under the government’s election manifesto.
In Dhaka, land measuring two to three ‘bighas’ will be acquired between every two wards, out of nearly 100 wards to build new playgrounds.
Each facility will also feature dedicated walkways for senior citizens.
The state minister further announced that abandoned and neglected grounds in rural areas will be identified and renovated in phases.
In addition, the government plans to construct 64 indoor-equipped sports villages across all 64 districts.
The former goalkeeper also pledged government support for the construction of futsal courts, acknowledging the game’s growing popularity among the youth.
Beyond infrastructure, the minister revealed plans to establish a full-fledged sports industry in Bangladesh. The initiative aims to produce international-standard sporting goods domestically, boosting exports, generating foreign currency and creating large-scale employment.
Corporate representatives welcomed the initiative and expressed their commitment to partnering with the government to accelerate the nation’s sporting progress.
Bd-pratidin English/TR
