Sangsad Bhaban, April 27 (V7N) — State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque today informed parliament that the government has undertaken a series of comprehensive measures to accelerate sports development and nurture talents from the grassroots level.  

Replying to a starred question from ruling party lawmaker A.M. Mahbub Uddin (Noakhali-1), the minister acknowledged concerns over past irregularities and corruption in the sports arena and said steps have been taken to restore discipline, ensure transparency, and build a sustainable sports ecosystem.  

Measures include establishing sports as a viable profession, introducing compulsory sports activities from class four in the national curriculum, and providing stipends to athletes aged 12–14 under the “Notun Kuri” programme.  

Plans are underway to appoint sports officers and physical education teachers at all upazilas, construct sports villages with indoor facilities in all 64 districts, and build standard indoor stadiums in 450 upazilas. Ward-based playgrounds will be created and illegally occupied fields freed to ensure wider access. Special emphasis has been placed on inclusion of underprivileged and differently-abled individuals in national and international sporting opportunities.  

Aminul said steps are being taken to establish a domestic sports equipment industry, enhance infrastructure, and encourage private sector investment. Branches of the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan (BKSP) will be set up in every divisional city to strengthen training and talent development. 

The minister informed the House that an investigation committee has been formed to probe allegations against the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), with actions to follow based on findings. Ad-hoc committees will be formed in district and divisional sports associations, with full-fledged committees elected within three months. Allegations against other federations and organisations will also be investigated.  

END/AJ/RH