Bihar recognised for sports promotion at Sportstar Aces Awards 2026

ANALYSIS

Introduction (Why in News)

Bihar has been awarded the title of “Best State for Promotion of Sports” at the Sportstar Aces Awards 2026 held in Mumbai. The recognition highlights the State’s rapid progress in sports infrastructure, grassroots expansion, and policy-driven ecosystem development.

Award Details

The award was presented by Aparna Popat and R. Doraiswamy.

It was received by Bihar’s Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh along with Raveendran Sankaran, Director General of Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA).

Key Personalities

• Shreyasi Singh – Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Sports Minister
• Raveendran Sankaran – DG, BSSA
• Aparna Popat – Jury member
• R. Doraiswamy – Presenter

Why Award Given (Core Reasons)

Bihar’s selection is based on a multi-dimensional sports development approach:

• Infrastructure push with new stadiums, complexes, and training centres
• Grassroots participation through Panchayat-level initiatives
• Athlete support systems and administrative strengthening
• Policy-backed funding, with ₹600 crore allocated in 2025

Major Projects / Facilities

The State has significantly expanded its sports infrastructure base:

• Rajgir Sports Complex – flagship multi-sport hub
• Patliputra Sports Complex (Patna) – upgraded facilities and hostels
• Development of hockey turf in Patna
• Upgradation of:
  • Yamuna Bhagat Football Stadium
  • Bhagalpur Indoor Badminton Stadium
  • Kalyan Bigha Indoor Shooting Range
• New synthetic athletics tracks in Purnia and Chapra
• Olympic-size swimming pool in Bhagalpur
• Multi-purpose indoor halls in Bhagalpur and Arrah

Events Hosted (National + International)

Bihar’s hosting capacity has improved significantly:

• ISTAF Sepak Takraw World Cup
• Men’s Hockey Asia Cup
• Khelo India Youth Games

Official Statements / Quotes

Raveendran Sankaran emphasized that the award:

• Validates Bihar’s revival of sporting legacy
• Reflects emergence as an “emerging sports powerhouse”
• Recognizes efforts of stakeholders across the State

Broader Significance

• Indicates Bihar’s transition from a lagging state to an emerging sports hub
• Strengthens federal competition among states in sports development
• Aligns with India’s larger goal of Olympic excellence and grassroots talent identification
• Demonstrates effectiveness of state-led policy intervention in sports

Way Forward

• Sustained investment in grassroots and elite pathways
• Focus on talent identification and coaching ecosystems
• Integration with national sports missions (Khelo India, Olympic vision)
• Ensuring maintenance and optimal utilization of infrastructure

STATIC PART

Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA)

• Role: Apex body for sports development and administration in Bihar
• Functions:
  • Infrastructure development
  • Talent identification and training
  • Policy implementation at state level

Updated - 14 March 2026; 06:09 PM IST | News Source: The Hindu