Dhaka:According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque emphasized the government's focus on selecting quality athletes rather than meeting a numerical target. He stated that the objective is to nurture athletes who can excel at national and international levels, rather than simply fulfilling a quota of 500 athletes. Md Aminul Haque made these remarks during a press conference at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. He noted that the athlete selection process is ongoing and, after a four-month review, 31 athletes were removed and 95 new athletes were added to the list, bringing the total to nearly 400. The minister highlighted the importance of performance, potential, and international competitiveness in the selection process, which will be reviewed every four months. The state minister also mentioned plans to integrate athletes and coaches into a comprehensive training program for international events. He pointed out that providing only financial assistance is insuf ficient for athletes' social and institutional security, and that sports cards would offer medical services, insurance, and travel facilities. Md Aminul Haque expressed dissatisfaction with stadium management, citing irregularities in Sylhet and other areas. He noted that stadiums are underperforming financially due to middlemen, and a committee is reviewing rental structures in Dhaka. Measures will be taken to enhance the sporting environment by eliminating incompatible activities from stadiums. Regarding Bangladesh's absence from the Cricket World Cup, the minister stated that future participation in international competitions would focus on achieving success rather than mere participation. Year-round training programs will target major events like the Asian Games, Olympics, and Commonwealth Games. Aminul Haque underscored the role of sports in fostering a healthy, disciplined society and announced efforts to identify talent at the grassroots level through educational and local programs. He aims to build competitive teams for major sporting platforms within the next five years, envisioning a shift from traditional to professional sports structures in Bangladesh.
