Patna: Bihar is set to witness a major transformation in its sports ecosystem as Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced an ambitious plan to develop Olympic-level sports infrastructure across the state. The announcement came during a high-level review meeting of the Sports Department held at the Sankalp Auditorium in Lok Seva Bhawan, Patna.
The state government has also confirmed that the under-construction Rajgir International Cricket Stadium will be completed by December 31, 2026, alongside several other infrastructure upgrades aimed at boosting Bihar’s presence in national and international sports.
Olympic-Standard Sports Facilities Planned Across Bihar
The Bihar government has decided to upgrade sports infrastructure to international standards, with a focus on preparing athletes for global competitions, including the Olympics.
Officials informed that multiple sports complexes and stadiums are being developed in different parts of the state, including Patna’s Dumri Sports Complex, which is planned to host multiple international-level sports facilities.
The government aims to ensure that young athletes from Bihar receive world-class training facilities within the state itself, eliminating the need to move outside for advanced coaching.
Rajgir International Cricket Stadium Deadline Fixed for 2026
A major highlight of the meeting was the construction progress of the Rajgir International Cricket Stadium. The Deputy Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that the stadium is fully completed by December 31, 2026, without delays.
Once completed, the stadium is expected to host domestic and international cricket matches, significantly boosting Bihar’s sporting profile and tourism potential.
Expansion of Sports Facilities in Rural Areas
The government also reviewed the progress of sports infrastructure at the grassroots level. Out of 8,053 gram panchayats in Bihar, sports grounds have already been completed in 4,700 panchayats, covering 5,266 playgrounds.
Authorities have been instructed to expedite the remaining construction work. The initiative is being implemented under the VB-G RAM G (Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission, Rural) scheme to promote sports culture in rural Bihar.
The goal is to identify and nurture talent from villages by providing accessible sports facilities at the local level.
“Medal Lao, Naukri Pao” Scheme to Reward Athletes
To motivate athletes, the state government reiterated its commitment to the “Medal Lao, Naukri Pao” (Bring Medals, Get Jobs) policy.
Under this scheme, players who perform exceptionally at national and international levels will be rewarded with government jobs along with recognition and financial support.
The government is also focusing on providing advanced coaching, modern sports equipment, and structured training programs to help athletes compete at higher levels.
Renovation of Moin-ul-Haq Stadium and Connectivity Push
Special emphasis was placed on the redevelopment of the historic Moin-ul-Haq Stadium in Patna. The Deputy Chief Minister instructed officials to accelerate renovation work and improve coordination with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA).
Improving road connectivity and transport access to the stadium was also highlighted as a priority to ensure smooth crowd management during major sporting events.
Strengthening Sports Culture at Panchayat Level
The government plans to institutionalize sports culture at the grassroots by organizing regular sports festivals and competitions at the panchayat level.
Officials have been directed to form sports clubs involving former players, youth, and local communities to encourage participation in sports activities.
Additionally, construction of gym-cum-sports centers and outdoor stadiums at district and block levels is being accelerated to strengthen the sports ecosystem.
Key Officials Present at the Review Meeting
The high-level meeting was attended by Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh, Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar, Development Commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh, Sports Department Secretary Vinod Singh Gunjiyal, and several senior officials.
With large-scale infrastructure projects, rural sports development initiatives, and strong incentive schemes like “Medal Lao, Naukri Pao,” Bihar is positioning itself as an emerging sports hub in India. The completion of the Rajgir International Cricket Stadium and redevelopment of key facilities in Patna are expected to play a crucial role in transforming the state’s sporting landscape by 2026.
