Speaking at the \u201cBreaking Boundaries with Nara Lokesh\u201d interactive session held with the Indian Women\u2019s Cricket Team, he said that the government has increased sports quota to three per cent. This will significantly enhance education and employment opportunities for athletes, he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Minister revealed that the government introduced scholarships, annual coaching camps, hostel facilities, travel allowances, and competitions at district and state levels to encourage budding sportspersons, including para-athletes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Recalling that under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu\u2019s leadership, united Andhra Pradesh successfully hosted the Afro-Asian Games and established an international-standard Sports Village in Hyderabad, he said the current government will work on a planned roadmap for sports development in the next decade.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He also highlighted the success of the recently organised \u201cYoga Andhra\u201d program inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi\u2019s call and added that special efforts would be taken to encourage sports at the grassroots level. Minister Lokesh stressed that parents\u2019 mindset needs to change in order to support girls pursuing sports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The minister lauded the achievements of women cricketers, noting the struggles they faced over the years.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cFor a long time, women\u2019s cricket was seen as secondary to men\u2019s cricket. Despite lack of media coverage, facilities, and support, you persevered and transformed the perception of Indian cricket with your remarkable performances,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Praising their achievements, Lokesh mentioned the Asian Games Gold Medal (2022), ICC U-19 Women\u2019s T20 World Cup (2025), and seven Asia Cup victories. \u201cThese are not just victories but a testament to the extraordinary strength and talent within you,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Minister Lokesh appreciated the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for ensuring gender parity in payments.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe initiative to provide equal match fees and pay parity for women cricketers is truly commendable. This is a key step towards removing gender disparities in sports. But this is just the beginning, grassroots facilities and wider encouragement are essential to fulfill the sporting dreams of young girls,\u201d he remarked.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Minister Lokesh appreciated the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for ensuring gender parity in payments.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
They also suggested that sports be included as a dedicated subject in the education system.<\/p>\r\n\r\n