Agartala, Jan 15

The central government is not supporting adequately to build up the sports infrastructure in India's northeastern states though there are huge talents in the region, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar said here Wednesday.

"The union government is not helping the northeastern states sufficiently to build up the sports infrastructure and to boost the sports in the region," Sarkar said after inaugurating the 59th National School Football U-17 Boys Championship here.

"There are enormous sports talents in the eight northeastern states. These talents must be properly nurtured. In the international arena, India's sports performance is very shameful," the chief minister said.

Strongly demanding suitable amendment of India's sports policy, Sarkar said the central and state governments must work together to develop sports in India.

"For strengthening India's unity and integrity, sports can play a key role," Sarkar added.

In all, 30 teams from 28 states and two organisations are expected to take part in the five-day long 59th National School Football U-17 Boys Championship.

The competition would be held at 14 fields in four districts of Tripura.

By:IANS