Security at the Commonwealth Games has come under question since two Taiwanese tourists were shot in Delhi on Sunday.
A Channel Seven Australia reporter further exacerbated concerns after showing how easy it was to buy a bomb, test it, and take it right into the games village - no questions asked.
Channel Seven reporter Mike Duffy talks about his security breach.
Have a look at Video here.
Security fails in Commonwealth Games 2010, Aussie TV Reporter Claims Explosives into Venue
An Australian TV channel has claimed that its crew got past security personnel and entered the Commonwealth Games village with crude explosives bought in New Delhi a few days ago, raising questions over safety at the event venues.
Channel 7 journalist Mike Duffy claimed that he walked into one of the Games venues with a case of explosive which could have triggered explosions if fitted with a detonator. The video footage put up in a website called 3news.co.nz showed Duffy secretly filming the purchase of the case from the boot of a car in New Delhi.
The video also showed how Duffy was even given a demonstration by the vendors. "If I need to blow up this car, all I need further is a detonator and explosive," the vendor told Duffy in the video.
Duffy claimed that he was easily able to buy the items, including ammonium nitrate and explosives used for mining, in New Delhi, which is scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games from October 3 to 14.
"We found that without too much trouble one can purchase these explosives and equipment on the streets of New Delhi. At the mining areas, they sell it almost alongside groceries," he said in the news footage in the website.
On Sunday, two Taiwanese nationals were injured when two motor-cycle borne attackers fired at a bus carrying foreign tourists outside Jama Masjid, raising fresh concerns about security in the wake of the Delhi Games. PTI
Channel 7 journalist Mike Duffy claimed that he walked into one of the Games venues with a case of explosive which could have triggered explosions if fitted with a detonator. The video footage put up in a website called 3news.co.nz showed Duffy secretly filming the purchase of the case from the boot of a car in New Delhi.
The video also showed how Duffy was even given a demonstration by the vendors. "If I need to blow up this car, all I need further is a detonator and explosive," the vendor told Duffy in the video.
Duffy claimed that he was easily able to buy the items, including ammonium nitrate and explosives used for mining, in New Delhi, which is scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games from October 3 to 14.
"We found that without too much trouble one can purchase these explosives and equipment on the streets of New Delhi. At the mining areas, they sell it almost alongside groceries," he said in the news footage in the website.
On Sunday, two Taiwanese nationals were injured when two motor-cycle borne attackers fired at a bus carrying foreign tourists outside Jama Masjid, raising fresh concerns about security in the wake of the Delhi Games. PTI
Sushil Kumar is World wrestling champion, Hope for Gold Medal in Commonwealth Games
Sushil Kumar made history by becoming the first Indian to win a World wrestling championship gold medal when he overpowered home favourite Alan Gogaev to win the 66kg freestyle title in Moscow on Sunday.
The exciting 3-1 victory in the title-bout also made Sushil the first Indian grappler to bag Olympic and World championship medals. The 27-year-old already holds the Asian and Commonwealth titles.
On his way to the final, Sushil convincingly defeated Anastasios Akritidis of Greece (6-0), Martin Sebastian Daum of Germany (4-1) and Batzorig Buyanjar of Mongolia (9-1) before rallying to beat reigning European champion Jabrayil Hasanov of Azerbaijan (4-3).
The WFI Secretary and former Asian Games gold medallist Kartar Singh, too, expressed his joy after Sushil won the gold.
Kartar hoped that the Commonwealth Games gold at home should not be a difficult thing to achieve for Sushil.
The exciting 3-1 victory in the title-bout also made Sushil the first Indian grappler to bag Olympic and World championship medals. The 27-year-old already holds the Asian and Commonwealth titles.
On his way to the final, Sushil convincingly defeated Anastasios Akritidis of Greece (6-0), Martin Sebastian Daum of Germany (4-1) and Batzorig Buyanjar of Mongolia (9-1) before rallying to beat reigning European champion Jabrayil Hasanov of Azerbaijan (4-3).
The WFI Secretary and former Asian Games gold medallist Kartar Singh, too, expressed his joy after Sushil won the gold.
Kartar hoped that the Commonwealth Games gold at home should not be a difficult thing to achieve for Sushil.
Govt approves money for tennis players
The payment row that threatened to derail India’s tennis campaign in the upcoming Commonwealth Games was resolved on Saturday with the government approving Rs one crore for five elite players.
The elite men’s players — Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, Rohan Bopanna and Somdev Devvarman — had threatened to pull out of the Games if there dues, in the last two years, were not cleared.
The Sports Ministry had accused the All India Tennis Association for delay in payment, saying it had not received players’ bills from the AITA for clearance.
Rahul Bhatnagar, Joint Secretary (International Sports Division) of Sports Ministry on Saturday announced the government has approved the money to be released to the players.
“The government has sanctioned Rs one crore and the players will get this money within the next week. Leander Paes will get Rs 19.26 lakh, Mahesh Bhupathi 19.62 lakh, Rohan Bopanna 18.33 lakh, Somdev Devvarman 25.88 lakh and Sania Mirza Rs 17.52 lakh,” Mr. Bhatnagar said at a press conference here.
“As far as ministry is concerned, the matter is over now,” he added.
As per the government scheme for the players’ preparations for the Games, they were entitled to an allowance of USD 115 per day for 75 days in a year for training and competitions abroad.
Accordingly, the players were entitled to $17,250 each excluding the air-fare for travelling.
The money that has been approved includes the economy class air-fares but Bhatnagar did not reveal the number of tournaments for which the players have been given the air-fare.
AITA had asked for air-fare for at least 11 tournaments in year.
The elite players were unhappy that they were not getting any benefit out of the government’s scheme.
The AITA had first denied and then confirmed the threat by the players.
After getting an assurance from the Sports Ministry, the players had then issued a joint statement that they will be available for the upcoming Davis Cup and the Commonwealth Games.
The elite men’s players — Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, Rohan Bopanna and Somdev Devvarman — had threatened to pull out of the Games if there dues, in the last two years, were not cleared.
The Sports Ministry had accused the All India Tennis Association for delay in payment, saying it had not received players’ bills from the AITA for clearance.
Rahul Bhatnagar, Joint Secretary (International Sports Division) of Sports Ministry on Saturday announced the government has approved the money to be released to the players.
“The government has sanctioned Rs one crore and the players will get this money within the next week. Leander Paes will get Rs 19.26 lakh, Mahesh Bhupathi 19.62 lakh, Rohan Bopanna 18.33 lakh, Somdev Devvarman 25.88 lakh and Sania Mirza Rs 17.52 lakh,” Mr. Bhatnagar said at a press conference here.
“As far as ministry is concerned, the matter is over now,” he added.
As per the government scheme for the players’ preparations for the Games, they were entitled to an allowance of USD 115 per day for 75 days in a year for training and competitions abroad.
Accordingly, the players were entitled to $17,250 each excluding the air-fare for travelling.
The money that has been approved includes the economy class air-fares but Bhatnagar did not reveal the number of tournaments for which the players have been given the air-fare.
AITA had asked for air-fare for at least 11 tournaments in year.
The elite players were unhappy that they were not getting any benefit out of the government’s scheme.
The AITA had first denied and then confirmed the threat by the players.
After getting an assurance from the Sports Ministry, the players had then issued a joint statement that they will be available for the upcoming Davis Cup and the Commonwealth Games.
I would love to come to India says Bolt
A back injury and an unfavourable timing of the event forced Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt to skip the Commonwealth Games but the Olympic gold medallist said he would love to visit India some day.
“Based on the programme my coach has for me, the timing of the Commonwealth Games will conflict with preparations for next season,” Bolt told PTI-Bhasha via email.
“Normally October is the off season when athletes are resting. Since making this decision I picked up a back injury, which puts me out anyway.
“I would like to come to India as I have never been there before,” he added.
In June, the three-time world champion sprinter had decided not to compete at the October 3-14 Delhi Games. Asked if his absence will weaken the Jamaican team, Bolt said, “Jamaica has a lot of other strong athletes, especially in the sprint events.”
“I am not sure who Jamaica has selected. I believe there are also some other athletes who are not available due to the timing of the competition.”
Nursing a back injury, Bolt said his next priority would be to resume his training next month and concentrate in World Championships besides the London Games.
“I have been off training for the past three weeks. I will start training again at the start of October. My next major competition will be the 2011 IAAF World T&F Championships.
“For me the World Championships and Olympic Games are very important and I will resume training in October to get ready for those meets,” he said.
“Based on the programme my coach has for me, the timing of the Commonwealth Games will conflict with preparations for next season,” Bolt told PTI-Bhasha via email.
“Normally October is the off season when athletes are resting. Since making this decision I picked up a back injury, which puts me out anyway.
“I would like to come to India as I have never been there before,” he added.
In June, the three-time world champion sprinter had decided not to compete at the October 3-14 Delhi Games. Asked if his absence will weaken the Jamaican team, Bolt said, “Jamaica has a lot of other strong athletes, especially in the sprint events.”
“I am not sure who Jamaica has selected. I believe there are also some other athletes who are not available due to the timing of the competition.”
Nursing a back injury, Bolt said his next priority would be to resume his training next month and concentrate in World Championships besides the London Games.
“I have been off training for the past three weeks. I will start training again at the start of October. My next major competition will be the 2011 IAAF World T&F Championships.
“For me the World Championships and Olympic Games are very important and I will resume training in October to get ready for those meets,” he said.
Preparations satisfactory says Gill
Sports Minister M.S. Gill on Thursday assured that all the venues for next month's Commonwealth Games would be ready soon to welcome the sportspersons from 71 countries and territories.
“The preparations for the CWG are satisfactory and we are all ready to host the Games,” Gill said on the sidelines of a function here to launch a song ‘Shera' for the mega event.
Gill said that he met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to inform him that the Games' preparations are going on smoothly.
“After the Cabinet meeting today I met him and told him that everything is fine,” he said.
Gill also said that the Indian swimmers have started practising for the Delhi Games since Wednesday and the issues pertaining to delays in preparations have been all sorted out.
Meanwhile, the song ‘Shera', based on the mascot of the Delhi Games, is the third song that has been composed for this event.
The other two being of A.R. Rahman and Palash Sen. The Sports Minister, while speaking highly about the song 'Shera', expressed hope that the October 3-14 Games will also reflect the same amount of energy and intensity.
“The preparations for the CWG are satisfactory and we are all ready to host the Games,” Gill said on the sidelines of a function here to launch a song ‘Shera' for the mega event.
Gill said that he met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to inform him that the Games' preparations are going on smoothly.
“After the Cabinet meeting today I met him and told him that everything is fine,” he said.
Gill also said that the Indian swimmers have started practising for the Delhi Games since Wednesday and the issues pertaining to delays in preparations have been all sorted out.
Meanwhile, the song ‘Shera', based on the mascot of the Delhi Games, is the third song that has been composed for this event.
The other two being of A.R. Rahman and Palash Sen. The Sports Minister, while speaking highly about the song 'Shera', expressed hope that the October 3-14 Games will also reflect the same amount of energy and intensity.
Games success depends on athletes response says Hooper
Even as the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee is claiming to stage best ever edition of the quadrennial event, Commonwealth Games Federation CEO Mike Hooper feels it would be up to the athletes to decide that.
"This is not for me or anybody else to judge whether this will be the best ever Games. Only athletes can tell that. Thereafter we will say whether it is better than Manchester or Melbourne," Hooper told reporters.
Hooper, who has been staying in the capital for past three years and has been a spectator to all the controversies, is, however, happy with the preparations but yet to be satisfied.
"I will only be satisfied on October 14 when athletes from around the world will have broad smile on their faces and will take back good memories of the Delhi Games. I hope we will deliver successful Games after all the drama," said the New Zealander.
Hooper said that after receiving the "Venue Completion Certificates" emphasis is now on operational part of the event and all the related agencies are working together to make it a success.
"We got the Venue Completion Certificate on Monday evening and now are focusing on the operational part of the Games. There should be proper mechanism in place.”
"If any problem occurs, it should be solved at the venue itself. Besides, there will also be Games operation centre and Games time management group which will meet on daily basis," he said.
He admitted that there have been significant delays but now everything is on track.
"Progress has been slow but everything seems to be on track now. Nevertheless, minor problems will always be there till the opening ceremony. It happens everywhere. It happened in Manchester, Melbourne and other Games venues as well. Delhi is not an exception."
Hooper is scheduled to inspect the Games Village on September 15, on the eve of the opening.
"Games Village will be opening on September 16 and I will visit the place with the CGF team on September 15," he said.
Asked about the delay is getting the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium or shooting ranges ready, the CEO claimed that the buildings are ready and only the beautification part is left.
"To say that venues are not ready is utter nonsense and unfair. Only the superficials are to be done. We want Delhi to look more beautiful and I am confident that everything will be in place before October 3," said Hooper.
PTI
"This is not for me or anybody else to judge whether this will be the best ever Games. Only athletes can tell that. Thereafter we will say whether it is better than Manchester or Melbourne," Hooper told reporters.
Hooper, who has been staying in the capital for past three years and has been a spectator to all the controversies, is, however, happy with the preparations but yet to be satisfied.
"I will only be satisfied on October 14 when athletes from around the world will have broad smile on their faces and will take back good memories of the Delhi Games. I hope we will deliver successful Games after all the drama," said the New Zealander.
Hooper said that after receiving the "Venue Completion Certificates" emphasis is now on operational part of the event and all the related agencies are working together to make it a success.
"We got the Venue Completion Certificate on Monday evening and now are focusing on the operational part of the Games. There should be proper mechanism in place.”
"If any problem occurs, it should be solved at the venue itself. Besides, there will also be Games operation centre and Games time management group which will meet on daily basis," he said.
He admitted that there have been significant delays but now everything is on track.
"Progress has been slow but everything seems to be on track now. Nevertheless, minor problems will always be there till the opening ceremony. It happens everywhere. It happened in Manchester, Melbourne and other Games venues as well. Delhi is not an exception."
Hooper is scheduled to inspect the Games Village on September 15, on the eve of the opening.
"Games Village will be opening on September 16 and I will visit the place with the CGF team on September 15," he said.
Asked about the delay is getting the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium or shooting ranges ready, the CEO claimed that the buildings are ready and only the beautification part is left.
"To say that venues are not ready is utter nonsense and unfair. Only the superficials are to be done. We want Delhi to look more beautiful and I am confident that everything will be in place before October 3," said Hooper.
PTI
All venues ready, India eyeing 75 medals says Lalit Bhanot
Commonwealth Games organising committee secretary general Lalit Bhanot on Thursday said all the venues are complete and they are ready to host not only the next month`s Commonwealth Games but also Olympics.
"All the Games venues are ready and the International bodies have also certified that they are fit to host events" Bhanot said.
"There was delay in the construction of these venues but they are now completely ready and are of world class standard. These stadiums can host events like the Olympics and world championships" he added.
Bhanot also hoped that India will improve on its previous performance at Melbourne Games.
"In the Melbourne Games we won 52 medals and secured the fourth position. That was the best Indian tally but this time we hope to get the third spot with around 75 medals" he said.
"In athletics we won two silvers in Melbourne. This year we hope for six to eight medals," he said.
PTI
"All the Games venues are ready and the International bodies have also certified that they are fit to host events" Bhanot said.
"There was delay in the construction of these venues but they are now completely ready and are of world class standard. These stadiums can host events like the Olympics and world championships" he added.
Bhanot also hoped that India will improve on its previous performance at Melbourne Games.
"In the Melbourne Games we won 52 medals and secured the fourth position. That was the best Indian tally but this time we hope to get the third spot with around 75 medals" he said.
"In athletics we won two silvers in Melbourne. This year we hope for six to eight medals," he said.
PTI
Anand backs CWG-bound Indian athletes
World chess champion Viswanathan Anand is more concerned about how many medals India would win in the Commonwealth Games than the controversies in the run-up to the mega event, scheduled to kick off here on October 3.
“I don’t know the details of the preparedness but I’m concerned about the number of medals we would win. I hope our athletes will win medals in the Delhi Games,” Anand said while wishing Indians luck.
Anand also said that the row over his citizenship is history now and the honorary doctorate degree will be conferred on him very soon.
“We have set a future date,” said Anand.
Anand, an Indian passport holder who has lived and trained in Spain for a while, was to be conferred the degree by the University of Hyderabad but what was supposed to be a simple ceremony, snowballed into a major controversy when it emerged that the Human Resource Development Ministry had questioned Anand’s citizenship.
HRD minister Kapil Sibal had to step in and settled the issue by offering an apology to Anand.
Asked about the future of chess in India, Anand sounded optimistic. “We have just crossed million students in NIIT Mind Champions Academy and they play 20 games on the server.
“It’s very exciting as millions of kids are learning everyday. We will identify some talents. Five to 10 years from now, you will see the result,” Anand said.
“I don’t know the details of the preparedness but I’m concerned about the number of medals we would win. I hope our athletes will win medals in the Delhi Games,” Anand said while wishing Indians luck.
Anand also said that the row over his citizenship is history now and the honorary doctorate degree will be conferred on him very soon.
“We have set a future date,” said Anand.
Anand, an Indian passport holder who has lived and trained in Spain for a while, was to be conferred the degree by the University of Hyderabad but what was supposed to be a simple ceremony, snowballed into a major controversy when it emerged that the Human Resource Development Ministry had questioned Anand’s citizenship.
HRD minister Kapil Sibal had to step in and settled the issue by offering an apology to Anand.
Asked about the future of chess in India, Anand sounded optimistic. “We have just crossed million students in NIIT Mind Champions Academy and they play 20 games on the server.
“It’s very exciting as millions of kids are learning everyday. We will identify some talents. Five to 10 years from now, you will see the result,” Anand said.
Prime Minister to review Commonwealth Games preparations on Friday
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will tomorrow review the preparations for the Commonwealth Games, which are less than a month away, at a high-level meeting.
This will be the second time within a month that Singh would be reviewing the preparations for the October event for which he had asked the authorities to “redouble their efforts” to quickly complete remaining work as people were expecting a “flawless” opening to the Commonwealth Games.
Admitting that there had been lapses and delays in preparing for the Games, Dr. Singh had said that instead of finding fault at this stage, everyone must work together so that “we are proud” of hosting the event.
Sources said that weekly review meetings are also being scheduled to assess the progress of the work.
He had earlier visited the Jawaharlal Nehru sports complex, the venue of the opening and closing ceremonies of the games, here as part of series of steps to streamline and expedite the preparations for the October 3-14 mega event which have been dogged by a spate of corruption allegations.
Concerned by the delays, Dr. Singh had convened a high-level meeting on August 14 to review the preparations for the Games.
A committee of bureaucrats headed by Cabinet Secretary K. M. Chandrasekhar was formed and given overriding powers by bringing into its ambit the Games Organising Committee that has been tainted following corruption allegations.
This will be the second time within a month that Singh would be reviewing the preparations for the October event for which he had asked the authorities to “redouble their efforts” to quickly complete remaining work as people were expecting a “flawless” opening to the Commonwealth Games.
Admitting that there had been lapses and delays in preparing for the Games, Dr. Singh had said that instead of finding fault at this stage, everyone must work together so that “we are proud” of hosting the event.
Sources said that weekly review meetings are also being scheduled to assess the progress of the work.
He had earlier visited the Jawaharlal Nehru sports complex, the venue of the opening and closing ceremonies of the games, here as part of series of steps to streamline and expedite the preparations for the October 3-14 mega event which have been dogged by a spate of corruption allegations.
Concerned by the delays, Dr. Singh had convened a high-level meeting on August 14 to review the preparations for the Games.
A committee of bureaucrats headed by Cabinet Secretary K. M. Chandrasekhar was formed and given overriding powers by bringing into its ambit the Games Organising Committee that has been tainted following corruption allegations.
Delhi on flood alert, Govt says No danger to Commonwealth Games village
The Delhi government on Thursday held a high-level meeting to discuss the flood alert in the Capital.
The alert has been issued as the Yamuna river continues to flow above the danger mark. The government expects the water level in the Yamuna to go up by a metre by Friday as a huge volume of water is heading towards Delhi after close to six lakh cusecs of water was released from the Hatnikund barrage.
The water is expected to reach Delhi on Thursday night or early Friday morning.
But the Delhi government says there's no need to panic as additional boats and pumps have been put into action and all low lying areas facing the danger of flooding have already been evacuated. There is no danger to the Commonwealth Games village, the govt added.
Last month, when close two lakh cusecs of water was released, some low lying areas along the Yamuna had been flooded.
1978 saw the worst floods in Delhi when the Capital was swamped by seven lakh cusecs of water released from Hatnikund.
The excess water released from Hatnikund has already caused a breach in the Markanda river, damaging a portion of the Ambala-Saharanpur national highway and inundating 20 villages in the Yamunanagar area of Haryana. Five districts in Haryana have also been put on flood alert.
The alert has been issued as the Yamuna river continues to flow above the danger mark. The government expects the water level in the Yamuna to go up by a metre by Friday as a huge volume of water is heading towards Delhi after close to six lakh cusecs of water was released from the Hatnikund barrage.
The water is expected to reach Delhi on Thursday night or early Friday morning.
But the Delhi government says there's no need to panic as additional boats and pumps have been put into action and all low lying areas facing the danger of flooding have already been evacuated. There is no danger to the Commonwealth Games village, the govt added.
Last month, when close two lakh cusecs of water was released, some low lying areas along the Yamuna had been flooded.
1978 saw the worst floods in Delhi when the Capital was swamped by seven lakh cusecs of water released from Hatnikund.
The excess water released from Hatnikund has already caused a breach in the Markanda river, damaging a portion of the Ambala-Saharanpur national highway and inundating 20 villages in the Yamunanagar area of Haryana. Five districts in Haryana have also been put on flood alert.
CWG will be a success, says Gill
Expressing confidence that the upcoming Commonwealth Games 2010 will be held successfully, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. M.S. Gill on Tuesday announced doubling of cash awards for the CWG and Asian Games.
To encourage sportspersons, Dr. Gill announced the doubling of cash awards for the coming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games to Rs.20 lakhs (from Rs.10 lakhs) for Gold Medalist, Rs.10 lakhs (from Rs.5 lakhs) for Silver Medalist, and Rs.6 lakhs (from Rs.3 lakhs) for Bronze Medalist.
Speaking on the issue of Commonwealth Games preparation here today during the 3rd Conference of State Ministers for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Gill stated that the main outcome of the games would be the performance of our sportspersons and the sporting legacy left behind by the event.
Appreciating the efforts made by States in implementation of Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA), Dr. M.S. Gill, referred to the recent initiatives taken by the Ministry such as release of central share in a single instalment; introduction of structured course and pedagogy for training of masters trainers and kridashrees; coverage of all panchayats at one go in respect of small States/UTs like Lakshwadeep and Andaman & Nicobar; 20% annual coverage for North Eastern states against 10% for normal States.
Dr. Gill emphasized the need to promote and protect playing fields, and urged the State Governments to set up State level Playing Field Associations.
He also referred to the new proposal for creation of Urban Sports Infrastructure, which envisages 100% financial assistance for the setting up of community sports facilities and sports academies, engagement of coaches, coach development etc.
The Minister appreciated the innovative work done by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in setting up several professionally managed sports academies for which they have been awarded Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar for 2010.
Dr. Gill, on this occasion, announced that from now onwards one award will be earmarked for the best performing State in sports development.
On the youth side, Dr Gill informed efforts are on to add over one lakh rural youth clubs to the present number of three lakh rural youth clubs, which would lead to enhancement of coverage of membership from the present level of 80 lakh to over 100 lakh youth.
He also referred to the Rajiv Gandhi Award Scheme, which promotes adventure activities among the youth, including mountaineering, trekking and desert safari, which are aimed at national integration.
The Minister stated that, this year more than 5,000 beneficiaries will be covered as compared to 2,000 last year.
On this occasion, Dr. Gill also announced that the National Youth Festival will be held at Udaipur form January 12 to 16, 2011.
He said that the Ministry will provide a grant of Rs.2 crore to the State Government of Rajasthan for the conduct of youth festival.
Also present on this occasion was the Minister of State for Human Resource Development Purandeswari Devi who chose to highlight various initiatives taken by the Ministry of Human Resource Development to integrate physical education and sports with the school curriculum.
She said the National Education Policy and the National Curriculum Framework already provide for this, which has been now furthered with the introduction of the Right to Education Act, 2009.
The Act prescribes that every school should have access to a playground and engage a part-time physical education instructor.
The Minister also highlighted the need for convergence
between Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and the Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA).
In their recommendations, the State Sports Ministers, on this occasion stated that the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry and the Ministry of Human Resource Development should issue joint guidelines for the integration of physical education and sports in the school curriculum.
One of the other various recommendations by the State Sports ministers stated that Sport should be used as a development tool, particularly in the tribal, hilly areas and border districts.
They unanimously resolved that there was an urgent need for enacting a National Sports Act for promoting good governance practices in the National Sports Federations, including professional management, financial accountability and good electoral practices.
The conference concluded on a positive note with an optimistic outlook on the future of sports development in India both at the participative and the competitive level. (ANI)
To encourage sportspersons, Dr. Gill announced the doubling of cash awards for the coming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games to Rs.20 lakhs (from Rs.10 lakhs) for Gold Medalist, Rs.10 lakhs (from Rs.5 lakhs) for Silver Medalist, and Rs.6 lakhs (from Rs.3 lakhs) for Bronze Medalist.
Speaking on the issue of Commonwealth Games preparation here today during the 3rd Conference of State Ministers for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Gill stated that the main outcome of the games would be the performance of our sportspersons and the sporting legacy left behind by the event.
Appreciating the efforts made by States in implementation of Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA), Dr. M.S. Gill, referred to the recent initiatives taken by the Ministry such as release of central share in a single instalment; introduction of structured course and pedagogy for training of masters trainers and kridashrees; coverage of all panchayats at one go in respect of small States/UTs like Lakshwadeep and Andaman & Nicobar; 20% annual coverage for North Eastern states against 10% for normal States.
Dr. Gill emphasized the need to promote and protect playing fields, and urged the State Governments to set up State level Playing Field Associations.
He also referred to the new proposal for creation of Urban Sports Infrastructure, which envisages 100% financial assistance for the setting up of community sports facilities and sports academies, engagement of coaches, coach development etc.
The Minister appreciated the innovative work done by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in setting up several professionally managed sports academies for which they have been awarded Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar for 2010.
Dr. Gill, on this occasion, announced that from now onwards one award will be earmarked for the best performing State in sports development.
On the youth side, Dr Gill informed efforts are on to add over one lakh rural youth clubs to the present number of three lakh rural youth clubs, which would lead to enhancement of coverage of membership from the present level of 80 lakh to over 100 lakh youth.
He also referred to the Rajiv Gandhi Award Scheme, which promotes adventure activities among the youth, including mountaineering, trekking and desert safari, which are aimed at national integration.
The Minister stated that, this year more than 5,000 beneficiaries will be covered as compared to 2,000 last year.
On this occasion, Dr. Gill also announced that the National Youth Festival will be held at Udaipur form January 12 to 16, 2011.
He said that the Ministry will provide a grant of Rs.2 crore to the State Government of Rajasthan for the conduct of youth festival.
Also present on this occasion was the Minister of State for Human Resource Development Purandeswari Devi who chose to highlight various initiatives taken by the Ministry of Human Resource Development to integrate physical education and sports with the school curriculum.
She said the National Education Policy and the National Curriculum Framework already provide for this, which has been now furthered with the introduction of the Right to Education Act, 2009.
The Act prescribes that every school should have access to a playground and engage a part-time physical education instructor.
The Minister also highlighted the need for convergence
between Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and the Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA).
In their recommendations, the State Sports Ministers, on this occasion stated that the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry and the Ministry of Human Resource Development should issue joint guidelines for the integration of physical education and sports in the school curriculum.
One of the other various recommendations by the State Sports ministers stated that Sport should be used as a development tool, particularly in the tribal, hilly areas and border districts.
They unanimously resolved that there was an urgent need for enacting a National Sports Act for promoting good governance practices in the National Sports Federations, including professional management, financial accountability and good electoral practices.
The conference concluded on a positive note with an optimistic outlook on the future of sports development in India both at the participative and the competitive level. (ANI)
Rs. 40 crore balloon for Commonwealth Games
New Delhi's 2010 Commonwealth Games are all set to break all records for spending money. Billed as the costliest Commonwealth Games ever, it's reportedly already crossed Rs. 30,000 crore budget.
While this also includes an upgrade of the capital's infrastructure like roads and flyovers, not all of it will add to Delhi's quality of life.
The government plans to spend Rs. 150 crore on a gala opening and closing ceremony which includes Rs. 5 crore being paid to Oscar winner A R Rahman for the theme music.
But of this budget, a whopping Rs. 40 crore will be spent to lease a helium blimp - a big balloon the gas for which apparently will also have to be imported.
"What is the need for a balloon which costs Rs. 40 crore? Even the gas is coming from Russia I believe. This is nothing but an excuse to spend money," organising committee member VK Malhotra said.
While this also includes an upgrade of the capital's infrastructure like roads and flyovers, not all of it will add to Delhi's quality of life.
The government plans to spend Rs. 150 crore on a gala opening and closing ceremony which includes Rs. 5 crore being paid to Oscar winner A R Rahman for the theme music.
But of this budget, a whopping Rs. 40 crore will be spent to lease a helium blimp - a big balloon the gas for which apparently will also have to be imported.
"What is the need for a balloon which costs Rs. 40 crore? Even the gas is coming from Russia I believe. This is nothing but an excuse to spend money," organising committee member VK Malhotra said.
Gill doubles cash awards for CWG and Asian Games
The Sports Ministry on Tuesday doubled the cash awards for gold medal winners to Rs 20 lakhs for the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games to encourage sports persons to come up with an improved performance in the upcoming mega-events.
The announcement to increase the cash incentives was made by the Sports Minister M S Gill, who also expressed confidence that the Commonwealth Games will be held successfully in October.
He said the main outcome of the Games would be the performance of our sports persons and the sporting legacy left behind by the event.
"With a view to encouraging the sports persons, the Minister announced doubling of cash awards for the coming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games to Rs 20 lakhs (from Rs 10 lakhs) for gold medalist, Rs 10 lakhs (from Rs 5 lakhs) for silver medalist, and Rs 6 lakhs (from Rs 3 lakhs) for bronze medalist," the Ministry said in a release.
Meanwhile, the State Sports Ministers stressed on the need to enact a National Sports Act to bring more accountability in the functioning of the federations and promoting better governance.
"The State Sports Ministers unanimously resolved that there was an urgent need for enacting a National Sports Act for promoting good governance practices in the National Sports Federations, including professional management, financial accountability and good electoral practices," the statement said after the annual conference of State Sports Ministers.
Gill also emphasised the need to promote and protect playing fields, and urged the State Governments to set up State level Playing Field Associations.
He referred to the new proposal for creation of Urban Sports Infrastructure, which envisages 100 per cent financial assistance for the setting up of community sports facilities and sports academies, coach development etc, the release said.
Gill also said that efforts are on to add over one lakh rural youth clubs to the present number of three lakh rural youth clubs, which would lead to enhancement of coverage of membership from the present level of 80 lakh to over 100 lakh youth.
He also referred to the Rajiv Gandhi Award Scheme, which promotes adventure activities among the youth, including mountaineering, trekking and desert safari, which are aimed at national integration.
The Minister said this year more than 5,000 beneficiaries will be covered as compared to 2,000 last year.
He also announced that the National Youth Festival will be held at Udaipur form 12th January to 16, 2011.
The Ministry will provide a grant of Rs 2 crore to the State Government of Rajasthan for the conduct of youth festival.
The announcement to increase the cash incentives was made by the Sports Minister M S Gill, who also expressed confidence that the Commonwealth Games will be held successfully in October.
He said the main outcome of the Games would be the performance of our sports persons and the sporting legacy left behind by the event.
"With a view to encouraging the sports persons, the Minister announced doubling of cash awards for the coming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games to Rs 20 lakhs (from Rs 10 lakhs) for gold medalist, Rs 10 lakhs (from Rs 5 lakhs) for silver medalist, and Rs 6 lakhs (from Rs 3 lakhs) for bronze medalist," the Ministry said in a release.
Meanwhile, the State Sports Ministers stressed on the need to enact a National Sports Act to bring more accountability in the functioning of the federations and promoting better governance.
"The State Sports Ministers unanimously resolved that there was an urgent need for enacting a National Sports Act for promoting good governance practices in the National Sports Federations, including professional management, financial accountability and good electoral practices," the statement said after the annual conference of State Sports Ministers.
Gill also emphasised the need to promote and protect playing fields, and urged the State Governments to set up State level Playing Field Associations.
He referred to the new proposal for creation of Urban Sports Infrastructure, which envisages 100 per cent financial assistance for the setting up of community sports facilities and sports academies, coach development etc, the release said.
Gill also said that efforts are on to add over one lakh rural youth clubs to the present number of three lakh rural youth clubs, which would lead to enhancement of coverage of membership from the present level of 80 lakh to over 100 lakh youth.
He also referred to the Rajiv Gandhi Award Scheme, which promotes adventure activities among the youth, including mountaineering, trekking and desert safari, which are aimed at national integration.
The Minister said this year more than 5,000 beneficiaries will be covered as compared to 2,000 last year.
He also announced that the National Youth Festival will be held at Udaipur form 12th January to 16, 2011.
The Ministry will provide a grant of Rs 2 crore to the State Government of Rajasthan for the conduct of youth festival.
Security agencies to take over CWG (CommonWealth Games) venues
Delhi Police is likely to take over all Commonwealth Games venues on Tuesday and start plugging security loopholes, if any, to ensure an incident-free event which high on terror radar.
Though there is no specific threat to Games but a general one, security establishment is leaving no stones unturned for the mega event which would showcase country's ability to hold such events.
Delhi Police, which is the nodal agency for Games security, will conduct various drills, including anti-sabotage checks once they take over possession of the venues, a senior police official said on Monday.
Apart from around 80,000 Delhi Police personnel, over 17,500 paramilitary personnel, 3,000 commandos and 100 anti- sabotage check teams will be deployed across the city.
The Army has been asked to be alert. Once security personnel take over the venues, the entire venue will be completely sanitised by security personnel and are sealed after a thorough check.
Concerns were earlier raised about the delay in handing over venues to security agencies as some quarters felt that it would hamper the security preparations.
Delhi Police Commissioner Y S Dadwal, however, downplayed the delay and said the force was prepared to handle the security issues related to the sporting extravaganza.
"We know the stadia and surrounding areas. We know the city very well. So securing them or other areas will not be a problem," Dadwal had told when asked whether the delay in completion of Games projects was compromising security preparedness.
Union Home Minister P Chidambaram will review the arrangements on 15th September, once the security overlays are put in place. Heli-borne snipers, four-layered security cordon around Commonwealth Games venues and exclusive lanes for Games vehicles were among the components of the mammoth security plan for the event.
The security plan prepared for the mega event, which will see participation of around 8,500 athletes from 71 countries competing in 17 events, also envisages snipers on rooftops, commando hit teams and expert groups to tackle any chemical, biological, radio-active or nuclear attacks. Air Force will provide surveillance from the skies. Heli-borne assault teams will also be deployed to thwart any terror strikes.
"We are closely working with central intelligence agencies. The Air Force will be surveying the airspace. We will have heli-borne snipers patrolling the skies," a senior police official said. According to the plan, the venues, Games Village, practise and parking lots and Indira Gandhi International Airport where athletes arrive will have a four-layered security cordon.
At the outer cordon, the traffic will be stopped and access controlled. At the middle cordon, security-men will channelise the spectators to their designated seats while in the inner cordon, the barcode reading of tickets will take place and the spectators' photos captured. At the centre would be an exclusion zone which is in the 30 metre radius of the stadium, where spectators and others will have to go through Door-Frame Metal Detectors and X-Ray scanning besides manual searching.
Mobile Quick Reaction teams will be deployed on the outer perimeter of the venues besides a close watch through CCTV surveillance.
The Games village will also have a similar elaborate security arrangement. The boundary of the village will have a three metre high perimeter wall, a 1.5 metre high iron grill on top of it, mobile QRTs and CCTV surveillance system.
Elaborate arrangements are also made for the entry for athletes and vehicles into the village.
After entering the village following a thorough check, the athletes can freely move around the residential and dining halls. For vehicles, the drivers will have to pass through radio frequency identity checking where the number plates are checked to see whether are authorised to enter the place. There is a boom barrier and it will be opened only after the vehicle clears the radio frequency checking.
But if somebody tries to forcefully enter, there will be a tyre- killer and even if the vehicle clears it, the road blocker will block the passage of the vehicle.
At the hotels, there will be "robust" security arrangements with watch towers, CCTV surveillance and access control.
"All food prepared and served for Games guests in hotels will be sorted by security personnel and tasted by food experts," the official said.
With large number of athletes, officials and tourists reaching the city for the Games, security at and around the Indira Gandhi International Airport is also being augmented.
Anti-sabotage teams, commando hit teams and snipers at rooftop are some of the other components of security plan for the safe journey of the athletes and other officials. On the movement of athletes and other officials to venues, the official said commandos will be deployed on buses they travel. Police has also procured three armoured cars ahead of the Games and these vehicles move around the city and sometimes will stationed at venues during the Games.
Each carrying 30 commandos, armoured vehicles would be deployed to tackle eventualities like terror strikes. For the Games, Delhi Police personnel are also being specially trained in frisking, search operations and screening baggage through X-Ray machines. Special training on enhancing communication skills and behavioural patterns were also being imparted.
Though there is no specific threat to Games but a general one, security establishment is leaving no stones unturned for the mega event which would showcase country's ability to hold such events.
Delhi Police, which is the nodal agency for Games security, will conduct various drills, including anti-sabotage checks once they take over possession of the venues, a senior police official said on Monday.
Apart from around 80,000 Delhi Police personnel, over 17,500 paramilitary personnel, 3,000 commandos and 100 anti- sabotage check teams will be deployed across the city.
The Army has been asked to be alert. Once security personnel take over the venues, the entire venue will be completely sanitised by security personnel and are sealed after a thorough check.
Concerns were earlier raised about the delay in handing over venues to security agencies as some quarters felt that it would hamper the security preparations.
Delhi Police Commissioner Y S Dadwal, however, downplayed the delay and said the force was prepared to handle the security issues related to the sporting extravaganza.
"We know the stadia and surrounding areas. We know the city very well. So securing them or other areas will not be a problem," Dadwal had told when asked whether the delay in completion of Games projects was compromising security preparedness.
Union Home Minister P Chidambaram will review the arrangements on 15th September, once the security overlays are put in place. Heli-borne snipers, four-layered security cordon around Commonwealth Games venues and exclusive lanes for Games vehicles were among the components of the mammoth security plan for the event.
The security plan prepared for the mega event, which will see participation of around 8,500 athletes from 71 countries competing in 17 events, also envisages snipers on rooftops, commando hit teams and expert groups to tackle any chemical, biological, radio-active or nuclear attacks. Air Force will provide surveillance from the skies. Heli-borne assault teams will also be deployed to thwart any terror strikes.
"We are closely working with central intelligence agencies. The Air Force will be surveying the airspace. We will have heli-borne snipers patrolling the skies," a senior police official said. According to the plan, the venues, Games Village, practise and parking lots and Indira Gandhi International Airport where athletes arrive will have a four-layered security cordon.
At the outer cordon, the traffic will be stopped and access controlled. At the middle cordon, security-men will channelise the spectators to their designated seats while in the inner cordon, the barcode reading of tickets will take place and the spectators' photos captured. At the centre would be an exclusion zone which is in the 30 metre radius of the stadium, where spectators and others will have to go through Door-Frame Metal Detectors and X-Ray scanning besides manual searching.
Mobile Quick Reaction teams will be deployed on the outer perimeter of the venues besides a close watch through CCTV surveillance.
The Games village will also have a similar elaborate security arrangement. The boundary of the village will have a three metre high perimeter wall, a 1.5 metre high iron grill on top of it, mobile QRTs and CCTV surveillance system.
Elaborate arrangements are also made for the entry for athletes and vehicles into the village.
After entering the village following a thorough check, the athletes can freely move around the residential and dining halls. For vehicles, the drivers will have to pass through radio frequency identity checking where the number plates are checked to see whether are authorised to enter the place. There is a boom barrier and it will be opened only after the vehicle clears the radio frequency checking.
But if somebody tries to forcefully enter, there will be a tyre- killer and even if the vehicle clears it, the road blocker will block the passage of the vehicle.
At the hotels, there will be "robust" security arrangements with watch towers, CCTV surveillance and access control.
"All food prepared and served for Games guests in hotels will be sorted by security personnel and tasted by food experts," the official said.
With large number of athletes, officials and tourists reaching the city for the Games, security at and around the Indira Gandhi International Airport is also being augmented.
Anti-sabotage teams, commando hit teams and snipers at rooftop are some of the other components of security plan for the safe journey of the athletes and other officials. On the movement of athletes and other officials to venues, the official said commandos will be deployed on buses they travel. Police has also procured three armoured cars ahead of the Games and these vehicles move around the city and sometimes will stationed at venues during the Games.
Each carrying 30 commandos, armoured vehicles would be deployed to tackle eventualities like terror strikes. For the Games, Delhi Police personnel are also being specially trained in frisking, search operations and screening baggage through X-Ray machines. Special training on enhancing communication skills and behavioural patterns were also being imparted.
Udupi receives Queen's Baton Relay
A large number of people offered a rousing welcome to the Queen's Baton Relay here on Monday.
An elephant garlanded the baton at the welcome arch at Kinnimulki here on its arrival around 10 a.m. from Mangalore, even as the beats of the traditional ‘chande' rent the air. Hundreds of students and NCC cadets cheered when the baton was handed over to Babu Shetty, a sportsperson from the district.
Sportspersons such as Udaykumar Shetty, Apsara Rohit Kumar Kateel, Padmanabha Bandi, Arunakala, Sandra D'Souza, Pallavi Cherkady and Anita Tantri were present.
A team of sportspersons, led by Mr. Babu Shetty, took the baton from Kinnimulki. Cultural programmes, including Yakshagana, Veera Gase and Huli Vesha were organised near the taluk office and the Board High School.
The baton was taken through Taluk Office Road, Court Road, Diana Circle, Kavi Muddanna Road, and Bannanje Road before rejoining National Highway 17. The baton was here for about 45 minutes.
MLA Raghupati Bhat, president of zilla panchayat Gladys Almeida, Deputy Commissioner P. Hemalatha and Superintendent of Police Pravin Pawar were present at Kinnimulki to welcome the baton.
An elephant garlanded the baton at the welcome arch at Kinnimulki here on its arrival around 10 a.m. from Mangalore, even as the beats of the traditional ‘chande' rent the air. Hundreds of students and NCC cadets cheered when the baton was handed over to Babu Shetty, a sportsperson from the district.
Sportspersons such as Udaykumar Shetty, Apsara Rohit Kumar Kateel, Padmanabha Bandi, Arunakala, Sandra D'Souza, Pallavi Cherkady and Anita Tantri were present.
A team of sportspersons, led by Mr. Babu Shetty, took the baton from Kinnimulki. Cultural programmes, including Yakshagana, Veera Gase and Huli Vesha were organised near the taluk office and the Board High School.
The baton was taken through Taluk Office Road, Court Road, Diana Circle, Kavi Muddanna Road, and Bannanje Road before rejoining National Highway 17. The baton was here for about 45 minutes.
MLA Raghupati Bhat, president of zilla panchayat Gladys Almeida, Deputy Commissioner P. Hemalatha and Superintendent of Police Pravin Pawar were present at Kinnimulki to welcome the baton.
Saina eyes gold at Commonwealth Games New Delhi 2010
Saina Nehwal will hog the limelight in her quest for a gold that Indian women shuttlers have never won as home conditions and current form of players combine to make badminton one of the brightest medal prospects for the country in the Commonwealth Games this year.
On current form, world rankings and the size of the field at the Commonwealth Games — which do not feature Asian giants China, Indonesia, Korea and Japan — Indian shuttlers can hope to at least clinch five medals out of the 18 at stake in the October 3 to 14 event.
The country has so far won 11 medals, including two gold medals in men’s singles, but the yellow metal has always eluded the women shuttlers with Aparna Popat winning silver and bronze in 1998 and 2002 editions respectively.
But come October and a billion hearts will throb in unison for world number three Saina as she battles for the gold against the Malaysians, the English and the Singaporeans.
It was during the Melbourne Games that a 16-year-old Saina burst into the limelight when the then coach Vimal Kumar chose her as the top singles player against Singapore in the bronze medal match and the Hyderabadi delivered by helping India win the bronze.
Four years later, Saina has risen in stature to such an extent that she has become a Khel Ratna awardee and the face of Indian badminton.
Given her international standing, anything less than gold on home turf would be a disappointment for the 20-year-old, who has only Mew Choo Wong of Malaysia to deal with as a possible threat to her title hopes.
“My aim is to win a medal for the country at the Commonwealth Games. I have a few more weeks for the Games. I’m preparing hard and I am focusing on my game. I have to win a medal,” Saina said.
Badminton is a discipline dominated by the Asian nations such as China, Indonesia, Korea and Japan and since the Commonwealth Games doesn’t feature these nations, competition for India will come mainly from England and Malaysia, who have won 93 and 51 medals respectively so far.
India have done well in the past but they have never looked so good and it would be there best chance to reap the biggest ever medal haul.
“The Indian badminton team is very well-prepared and they have also done well internationally. We have lots of hopes from the shuttlers and I hope they will come up with at least four medals,” national coach Pullela Gopichand said.
In the men’s singles, Chetan Anand, who won the bronze in 2006 Melbourne Games, and youngster P Kashyap will spearhead the Indian challenge and they would look to emulate Prakash Padukone and the late Syed Modi, who had won the title in 1978 and 1982 editions.
Struggling with a knee injury, Chetan has been inconsistent this year and his recent form has taken a major dip, especially after his first round loss to Singapore’s Ong Zhao Ashton Chen, who was then placed 107th in world rankings.
Kashyap, on the other hand, has been in reasonably good touch but unlucky with the draws. The Indian will hope that luck smiles on him when he competes against illustrious colleagues such as Lee Chong Wei of Malaysia to bring India a medal.
India’s medal hopes will also rest on world number 13 mixed doubles pair of Jwala and Diju, who recently reached the quarterfinals of the World Championship last month.
For Jwala-Diju, England will be the biggest threat as they might turn up with three doubles pair but the Indians should still back themselves to win a medal in the prestigious event.
“We would be aiming for gold and if I can be fit and we can play to our best, nothing can stop us from getting the medal,” said Diju.
“Although the level is not that high compared to the World Championship, I still think there would be some good challenge from England, Malaysia and Singapore.
“The Asians still can be managed but the English will be difficult to get across. I think they are coming with three doubles pair and in Nathan and Jenny they have a good pair,” he added.
Commonwealth Games tickets
Commonwealth Games tickets will be finally available in retail outlets across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) from Wednesday, August 25 2010.
Tickets can be bought from 20 selected Central Bank of India branches as well as seven nominated Hero Honda showrooms and the IRCTC outlet in Central Delhi. All the ticket related information regarding list of the outlets and booking is available on www.tickets.cwgdelhi2010.org
Apart from Delhi, tickets will also be available in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune and Hyderabad.
An added incentive for ticket-holders is free Metro and Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) rides on the day of the event, including the Opening and Closing ceremonies, All ticket-holders will be allowed one to and fro ride on the Metro and DTC buses for that specific day.
Ticket prices for the sporting event will range from Rs 50 to Rs 1,000, those for the opening ceremony have been pegged from Rs 1,000 to Rs 50,000.
The ticket prices for the closing ceremony will be between Rs 750 and Rs 50,000.
Commonwealth Games organizing committee has also launched ticketing call centre 1800-200-1294.
There is no entertainment tax levied on Commonwealth Games tickets sale.
Tickets can be bought from 20 selected Central Bank of India branches as well as seven nominated Hero Honda showrooms and the IRCTC outlet in Central Delhi. All the ticket related information regarding list of the outlets and booking is available on www.tickets.cwgdelhi2010.org
Apart from Delhi, tickets will also be available in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune and Hyderabad.
An added incentive for ticket-holders is free Metro and Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) rides on the day of the event, including the Opening and Closing ceremonies, All ticket-holders will be allowed one to and fro ride on the Metro and DTC buses for that specific day.
Ticket prices for the sporting event will range from Rs 50 to Rs 1,000, those for the opening ceremony have been pegged from Rs 1,000 to Rs 50,000.
The ticket prices for the closing ceremony will be between Rs 750 and Rs 50,000.
Commonwealth Games organizing committee has also launched ticketing call centre 1800-200-1294.
There is no entertainment tax levied on Commonwealth Games tickets sale.
Corruption at Commomwealth Games 2010.
Commonwealth Games is going to be held in October, 2010 India. These Games have been marred by financial irregularities exposing a large corruption scam.
Delhi CM Mrs. Sheila Dixit said that ”if there is corruption we will find out who is responsible and take stern action against them whoever they are -- central government or Delhi government officials or any others...” she also promises that all the venues which are going to host the games will be ready by the dead line.
Anil Khanna resigned from the post, OC treasure, in wake of allegations that his son's firm secured contract for laying synthetic courts at tennis stadium. Meanwhile Suresh Kalmadi continues as chairman of CWG organizing committee.
The Indian Central Vigilance committee has warned of sub standard construction that have not met safety requirements. It is yet to be seen whether the venues will be ready or not.
Delhi CM Mrs. Sheila Dixit said that ”if there is corruption we will find out who is responsible and take stern action against them whoever they are -- central government or Delhi government officials or any others...” she also promises that all the venues which are going to host the games will be ready by the dead line.
Anil Khanna resigned from the post, OC treasure, in wake of allegations that his son's firm secured contract for laying synthetic courts at tennis stadium. Meanwhile Suresh Kalmadi continues as chairman of CWG organizing committee.
The Indian Central Vigilance committee has warned of sub standard construction that have not met safety requirements. It is yet to be seen whether the venues will be ready or not.
