Kreeda Shakthi programme to be launched this year

Sanjaya ARIYARATNE

SPORTS DEVELOPMENT: The `Kreeda Shakthi' a sports development programme implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Sports Development Department and the Sports Associations will be launched this year to develop sports in every district of the island.

This was revealed at a press conference held at Auditorium of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports at Bauddhaloka Mawatha, recently.

The main purpose of this programme is to produce sportsmen and women who will reach International Standards.

The recognised talented lads and lasses from all over the island including rural areas will be given a continuous training to develop their skills by conducting training camps.

The talented players will be selected from the age categories between 15 to 20 years from those who have excelled in National school tournaments, district level and provincial level competitions and Junior national events so far.

Former Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Jeewan Kumaratunga said, that this 'Kreeda Shakthi' sports development programme is a concept of Mahinda Chinthanaya and throughout this programme, this year the up and coming talented Boys and Girls will show their prowess and this programme will unearth the hidden talents of youth in rural areas and give a helping hand to improve their skills.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has allocated over six million rupees for the sports associations, said the Minister.

Meanwhile, the coaches who produce talented sportsmen and women to the country will also be recognised. They will receive more benefits and the opportunities to take part in foreign coaching camps.