On the directives of the newly appointed Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), Professor Ahsan Iqbal, the ministry has intensified efforts for the revival of sports in the country.
The first-ever 'National Sports Revival Conference' will be held next month to bring about improvements and regain the lost glory in the field of sports.
The decision was taken on Thursday during a meeting chaired by the IPC Minister, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, attended by the Secretary IPC, Additional Secretary, Director-General Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), and other relevant stakeholders. During the meeting, the Minister reviewed the progress of the upcoming National Sports Revival Conference, National Games, and Narowal Sports Complex.
The Secretary IPC provided a detailed briefing, and it was decided that the Conference would be held next month, inviting all relevant stakeholders, including the country's renowned athletes, representatives of sports associations, and others. The Conference will feature various thematic sessions, and participants' suggestions will be taken to bring about reforms in the field of sports, ultimately improving national sports.
As per the Minister's directions, the year 2025 will be celebrated as a revival of sports in the country under the revival plan, which includes major reforms to improve national sports and regain the lost glory. A high-level policy board comprising representatives of all relevant stakeholders, including prominent athletes, will be formed to improve national sports.
During the meeting, the Minister also directed the concerned stakeholders to complete the unfinished work of Narowal Sports Complex to host international events. Additionally, it was decided to organize a National Heavyweight and Boxing Championship in Pakistan.
The Minister acknowledged Gujra's exceptional hockey talent, emphasizing the need for nurturing it with full facilities. He directed the IPC Ministry to enhance sports facilities across the country to promote local talent. Furthermore, the Minister directed the IPC Ministry to build more squash complexes in the country for the revival of squash.
The Minister also directed the IPC to construct Football complexes across the country, particularly in Chaman and Lyari, to facilitate local talent. During the meeting, the Minister also directed the IPC Ministry to establish a dashboard comprising all details related to Sports events and Sports Associations' roles and others.
The Minister emphasized the training of athletes, particularly for international events, and directed IPC to focus on their training while engaging international coaches to secure medals in key sports.