Read Bengali: স্পোর্টস ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকে চাকরির সুযোগ, বাজেটে ক্রীড়াক্ষেত্রে বড় চমক

Presenting the budget in the West Bengal Assembly on Friday, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said the government aims to build a modern and progressive Bengal by balancing fiscal responsibility with public expectations. As part of this broader vision, several major announcements have been made to strengthen sports infrastructure and promote athletic talent across the state.

Khelo India Programme to Reach Rural Bengal

One of the most significant announcements in the budget is the launch of the Khelo India Programme in West Bengal. The initiative aims to expand sporting activities beyond major cities and into district and rural areas.

The programme is expected to play a crucial role in identifying young talent, encouraging greater participation in sports and creating opportunities for aspiring athletes from remote regions of the state.

Sports University on the Cards

In a landmark move for sports education, the government has announced plans to establish a Sports University in West Bengal.

The proposed institution will offer specialised training, research opportunities and higher education in various sports-related disciplines. Officials believe the university will help create a professional sports ecosystem and allow athletes to access world-class education and training facilities within the state.

International-Standard Stadium for North Bengal

To boost sporting development in North Bengal, the government has proposed the construction of an international-standard indoor and outdoor stadium complex. A sum of Rs 20 crore has been allocated for the project.

The facility is expected to host national and international competitions while providing modern training infrastructure for athletes from the region.

Mini Indoor Stadiums Across Assembly Constituencies

Another major announcement is the construction of mini indoor stadiums in every Assembly constituency across the state.

The government plans to invest Rs 5 crore per constituency for these projects, which are expected to improve grassroots sporting infrastructure and provide better facilities at the district and sub-divisional levels.

Financial Support for Clubs and Athletes

The budget also includes substantial incentives for sports clubs and athletes.

Under the new policy, any club representing West Bengal in a national-level competition will be eligible for financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore.

In addition, athletes winning medals at national or international events will be considered for government jobs, providing greater financial security and recognition for sporting excellence.

To further encourage athletes, the government has earmarked Rs 50 crore for sports awards, incentives and honours.

New Opportunities Through 3D Animation Education

Apart from sports, the government has announced the introduction of 3D Animation courses in the state. Experts believe this initiative could create new career opportunities for young people and strengthen West Bengal’s presence in the digital and creative industries.

Building a Strong Sporting Future

State Sports Minister Indranil Kha had earlier stated that identifying talented athletes from remote areas and providing them with world-class training facilities would be one of the government’s top priorities.

The announcements made in the 2026-27 Budget appear to reflect that vision. Sports experts believe that the combination of improved infrastructure, financial support and grassroots development programmes could usher in a new era for sports in West Bengal and help the state emerge as a major sporting hub in the coming years.

West Bengal Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik has confirmed that an investigation into several complaints against the club is currently underway.

Read Bengali: অভিষেকের ডায়মন্ড হারবার এফসিকে ঘিরে আর্থিক অভিযোগ, তদন্তে নামল ক্রীড়া দপ্তর

Questions Over Club Structure and Finances

Speaking to reporters recently, the minister said that various complaints regarding Diamond Harbour FC had been submitted to the state sports department.

According to him, the allegations involve issues related to the club’s formation process, financial transactions and the source of funding.

Pramanik stated that authorities are examining whether the club has been operating according to all required rules and regulations. At the same time, officials are also investigating where the club’s funds are coming from and how that money is being utilised.

Sponsors May Also Be Questioned

The sports minister further revealed that sponsors associated with the club could also be contacted during the investigation process.

He said the government intends to closely examine how money entered the club and whether there were any irregularities in the financial dealings.

According to Pramanik, identifying possible inconsistencies in funding and expenditure remains one of the primary objectives of the inquiry.

Allegations Over Training Ground

Another issue raised by the minister concerns a ground allegedly being used by Diamond Harbour FC for training purposes.

Pramanik claimed complaints were received alleging that the land had been occupied illegally. He further stated that the administration has already taken steps to free the disputed land from encroachment.

The minister hinted that further action could be taken after the investigation report is submitted.

Sports Department and IFA Monitoring Matter

The state sports department has reportedly already begun preliminary work related to the probe.

Pramanik also said the department is maintaining regular communication with the Indian Football Association regarding the matter.

According to him, officials are currently verifying documents and information in an attempt to reach a final conclusion as quickly as possible.

Questions Over Player Recruitment

The minister additionally raised concerns regarding the club’s player recruitment process.

He alleged that certain footballers associated with government jobs had been recruited by the club, and that aspect is also being examined.

However, Pramanik clarified that the government is not against the growth or success of any football club in Bengal.

“Our goal is for every club in Bengal to perform well and achieve success,” he said. “But if any illegal activities are found, necessary action will be taken.”

No Official Response From Club Yet

So far, neither Diamond Harbour FC nor any of its officials have publicly responded to the allegations.

As a result, speculation surrounding the investigation continues to grow within Bengal football circles.

The minister also indicated that some complaints related to the Bengal Football Academy are being examined as well.

With investigations now underway, many believe the developments could have a significant impact on football administration in Bengal in the coming months.

Read Bengali: স্বরূপ বিশ্বাস গ্রেফতার, বাংলার ক্রীড়ায় দুর্নীতি নিয়ে কড়া নিশীথ প্রামাণিক

Since the formation of the BJP-led government in Bengal, the administration has repeatedly spoken about removing nepotism and corruption from sports bodies. Addressing a press conference after assuming office, Nishith Pramanik openly discussed several controversial issues linked to sports governance in the state.

Betting Allegations in Kolkata Football League

The minister also reacted to repeated allegations regarding betting syndicates operating in the Premier Division of the Calcutta Football League.

Without revealing details, he hinted that major developments could soon take place.

“Wait for two days, there is a big surprise coming,” Nishith Pramanik said while responding to questions regarding betting-related complaints.

Strong Remarks After Swaroop Biswas Arrest

On Thursday night, Swaroop Biswas, currently serving as vice-president of the Indian Football Association, was arrested.

Reacting to the development, the sports minister launched a sharp attack on the previous administration and alleged that Bengal sports had suffered due to corruption and misuse of power.

He said, “They have destroyed sports in Bengal. It is extremely important to rebuild sports by removing the corruption associated with Swaroop and Aroop. Those who played with the future of talented athletes in Bengal will not be spared.”

Pramanik further stated that the government’s immediate focus would be on identifying and supporting talented athletes at the grassroots level.

According to him, the state sports ministry would stand beside emerging sportspersons and provide every possible form of assistance for their development.

“Dynasty Politics Must Be Cleared”

The minister also accused several sports federations in Bengal of being controlled by family-based power structures for years.

He stated that the government intends to clean up the system and create a healthier sporting environment across the state.

“Dynasty politics had entered almost every federation. That needs to be cleaned up,” he said.

At the same time, he claimed that efforts are already underway to expand sporting infrastructure and opportunities throughout West Bengal.

Allegations Against Diamond Harbour FC

During the press conference, Nishith Pramanik also raised allegations against Diamond Harbour FC, a club associated with Abhishek Banerjee.

According to the minister, multiple complaints regarding the club have been submitted to the authorities.

He claimed there are questions over whether the club was formed according to proper regulations. Concerns have also reportedly been raised regarding the source of the club’s funds and the way the money has been utilised.

Pramanik stated that all allegations are currently being examined and that sponsors linked to the club could also be questioned during the investigation.

“We will examine where the money is coming from and how it is being provided,” the minister said.

Political Reactions Likely to Intensify

The minister’s remarks are expected to trigger strong political reactions in the coming days, especially given the involvement of prominent football administrators and political figures.

While investigations continue, the developments have once again brought Bengal’s sports administration and governance practices under intense public scrutiny.

বাংলায় পড়তে ক্লিক করুন: দু’বার এভারেস্ট জয়, আঙুল হারানোর আশঙ্কাতেও থামছেন না লক্ষ্মীকান্ত

After successfully scaling the world’s highest peak twice, the Bengali climber has now set his sights on achieving a rare Everest hat-trick.

Returns Home After Medical Treatment in Nepal

Lakshmikanta recently returned to India after completing his latest Everest expedition. Following several days of treatment at a hospital in Kathmandu, he arrived in Kolkata on Thursday morning.

He received a warm welcome at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, where former Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma was also present.

Manoj Verma enquired about his condition and advised him to undergo advanced medical treatment at the earliest.

Doctors Fear Partial Finger Loss

From the airport, Lakshmikanta was taken to a private hospital in Kolkata for further examination.

According to doctors, two sections of one finger have been severely damaged because of frostbite suffered during the expedition. Medical experts are considering surgery, and there remains a possibility that the affected portion may need to be removed.

Despite the serious nature of the injury, Lakshmikanta remains mentally strong.

He stated that losing part of a finger would not weaken his spirit and insisted that he wants to recover quickly and return to mountain training as soon as possible.

“Everest Hat-Trick Is My Goal”

Speaking after his return, Lakshmikanta said he would first spend some time at the police barracks in Barrackpore before travelling to his home in Tamluk, Purba Medinipur, to meet his family.

After spending time with them, he plans to resume training again.

His ultimate goal now is to scale Everest for a third consecutive time and create history. He also dreams of becoming a contender for the prestigious Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award, one of India’s highest honours in adventure sports.

Family Worried About His Future

Lakshmikanta’s personal life has also drawn attention. He remains unmarried, and according to reports, his family was previously unaware of the full extent of the risks involved in his mountaineering pursuits.

They reportedly learned many details of his expeditions through media coverage.

While his parents are proud of his achievements, they are naturally concerned about his safety and future. Family members reportedly want him to think about settling down and reducing the number of dangerous expeditions.

Determination Remains Unbroken

Lakshmikanta, however, remains completely focused on his mountaineering ambitions.

For him, the Everest hat-trick remains the biggest target at this stage of life. Until that dream is fulfilled, he does not wish to shift his attention elsewhere.

Physical pain, ongoing treatment and the fear of losing a finger have not reduced his determination. Instead, he wants to use these challenges as motivation to prepare once again for the world’s tallest mountain.

His courage, resilience and refusal to surrender to adversity have already made him an inspiration for many across Bengal and beyond.

Read Bengali: বাংলায় ২০০ কোটির ক্রীড়া প্রকল্পের আশ্বাস, বড় ঘোষণা অশোক দিন্দার

Dinda’s remarks come shortly after Union Minister of State for Sports Nisith Pramanik stressed the importance of keeping sports free from political influence.

Push for a Major Sports Infrastructure Project

Dinda revealed that a few years ago, Sports Authority of India (SAI) had shown interest in establishing a modern sports centre in West Bengal.

According to him, the proposed project required around 25 acres of land. However, the plan could not move forward due to the unavailability of suitable land.

Dinda said he learned about the issue during discussions with former Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, who reportedly identified land availability as the primary obstacle to the project’s implementation.

Issue Raised in the Assembly

After being elected as the BJP MLA from Moyna in the 2021 Assembly elections, Dinda said he investigated the matter further and later raised it in the state Assembly.

According to the former pacer, questions were raised regarding the claims, and he was asked to submit supporting documents. He later presented documents from 2022 related to the project.

However, the state government reportedly maintained that the documents did not specifically mention a ₹200-crore budget allocation for the proposed facility.

Looking Ahead Instead of Dwelling on Controversy

Despite the disagreements, Dinda said he prefers to focus on future development rather than past disputes.

He stressed that both the Centre and the state government must work together to improve sports infrastructure in Bengal. He also expressed hope that the long-discussed SAI project would eventually become a reality.

Potential locations for the project, according to Dinda, could include Kolkata, Burdwan or Purba Medinipur.

Proposal Already Submitted

Dinda stated that a proposal regarding the project has already been placed before the state sports minister. He believes that modern infrastructure, advanced training facilities and efficient administration can significantly improve Bengal’s sporting standards.

Athletes Should Lead Sports Administration

The former India fast bowler also advocated for greater participation of former athletes in sports governance and administration.

According to Dinda, individuals who have spent years competing at the highest level possess valuable practical experience that can help shape effective sports policies and development programmes.

He argued that bringing more sportspersons into administrative roles would accelerate the growth of sports in the state and ensure that decisions are made with a deeper understanding of athletes’ needs.

As discussions continue around the proposed sports project, Dinda’s comments have reignited debate over infrastructure development and the future direction of sports administration in West Bengal.

Read Bengali: বেঙ্গল অলিম্পিক নির্বাচনে চাপের অভিযোগ, বিস্ফোরক মমতার ভাই!

Speaking on the issue, Swapan Banerjee highlighted his long association with the organisation and said he had served in various key positions over the years.

“I have one thing to say. I was the Joint Secretary of the Bengal Olympic Association since 2012. In 2016, I became the Secretary of the Bengal Olympic Association. In 2020, I was elected President of the Bengal Olympic Association,” he said.

Allegations Against Aroop Biswas

Referring to the 2024 election, Banerjee alleged that former West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas influenced the voting process.

According to him, “In the 2024 election, Aroop Biswas defeated me. He called the presidents and secretaries and told them that those who voted for Babun Banerjee would not receive any benefits.”

Banerjee claimed that this warning created fear among many office-bearers associated with the Bengal Olympic Association.

“Because of this, the secretaries and presidents became afraid. Despite that, I still received 24 votes in the 2024 election,” he added.

Questions Raised Over Election Process

The remarks have sparked fresh discussion within West Bengal’s sporting community regarding the functioning of sports bodies and election procedures.

Banerjee’s allegations suggest that external influence may have affected the voting environment, although he did not provide specific evidence to support his claims during the statement.

No Response Yet

As of now, neither Aroop Biswas nor the Bengal Olympic Association has issued an official response to the allegations.

The controversy comes at a time when transparency and governance in sports administration continue to remain key issues across various sporting bodies in India.

Any further response from the concerned parties is likely to attract significant attention from both the sports fraternity and political observers in West Bengal.

The Diver’s Collection is priced between ₹15,795 and ₹77,995 and comprises twelve models across four water-resistance levels including 100m, 200m, 300m, and 500m offered in both quartz and automatic variants. The range has been developed to address varied usage contexts, from everyday aquatic activity to more demanding underwater conditions, marking Titan’s entry into a segment defined by precision and durability.

At the forefront of the lineup is the 500m professional diver’s watch, representing Titan’s most advanced offering in this category. Crafted from Grade 2 Titanium, the watch features the Aqua Lock mechanism designed to prevent unintended bezel movement during dives. Each piece is built in line with ISO 6425 standards, underscoring its credentials as a purpose-built dive instrument. The watch also includes a sapphire unidirectional bezel, helium escape valve, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, and Titan’s in-house 7AC0 automatic movement with a 40-hour power reserve.

Commenting on the launch, Atul Khimani, Owner, Khimani Watch Company, said, “Over the past few years, we’ve seen a clear shift in Mumbai toward watches that are backed by strong engineering and purpose, not just design. Titan’s Diver’s Collection enters at the right moment, offering credible dive specifications while remaining versatile for everyday wear. It’s a category that has been gaining interest, and this collection makes it far more accessible to a wider set of consumers.”

Across the collection, Titan has combined functionality with a distinctive design approach. The watches feature textured gradient dials inspired by underwater depth, complemented by clean finishing details and high-performance X1-C3 Swiss Super-LumiNova for enhanced visibility. While the 300m and 500m variants are equipped with automatic movements and advanced dive features, the 100m and 200m models focus on reliability and ease of use through quartz precision and robust stainless steel construction.

With this launch, Titan enters the professional dive watch segment, presenting a collection that blends technical performance with contemporary design for a new generation of watch enthusiasts.

The partnership brings together two forces of shared belief in modern athleticism where performance, discipline, and lifestyle intersect seamlessly. As pickleball continues its rapid rise as one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, the collaboration reflects A29 Wellbeing’s growing presence within emerging sporting cultures that celebrate agility, endurance, and conscious movement.

The Bengaluru Jawans, owned by Producer Priya Atlee & acclaimed Pan-India filmmaker Atlee, have quickly established themselves as a dynamic and competitive team within the professional pickleball circuit. Representing Bengaluru’s progressive spirit, the Jawans embody focus, resilience, and a forward-thinking approach to sport values that align closely with A29 Wellbeing’s philosophy.

Marking the association, the team’s official jersey was unveiled by Priya and Atlee, along with co-owners Jameel and Ashwin, ahead of the tournament. The jerseys feature A29 Wellbeing’s branding, symbolising the brand’s commitment to supporting athletes who balance high-performance sport with modern lifestyles.

Commenting on the association, Isha Jain, Founder of A29 Wellbeing, said: “At A29, we believe movement is a way of life, not just a routine. Partnering with the Bengaluru Jawans felt instinctive; they represent focus, resilience, and modern athleticism. Pickleball is growing into a global sport, and we’re proud to support athletes who embody the same balance of performance and lifestyle that A29 stands for.”

Beyond on-court presence, the partnership will extend to fan engagement initiatives, including a “Spot the A29 Logo” contest, where audiences can stand a chance to win match tickets by identifying the brand logo during Jawans’ matches throughout the tournament.

Designed for men and women who move fluidly between work, training, travel, and downtime, A29 Wellbeing offers elevated athleisure essentials crafted with advanced fabrics for breathability, flexibility, and long-lasting comfort. The brand’s clean aesthetic and intuitive fits reflect a modern approach to dressing one that places equal importance on style, wellbeing, and functionality.

With this collaboration, A29 Wellbeing strengthens its position within the premium athleisure and wellbeing space, while supporting a sport that mirrors the brand’s core values of movement, balance, and contemporary living.

The Royals displayed strong camaraderie between their raiding and defensive units, particularly in the second half, which proved crucial in sealing the victory. They will look to replicate that clinical approach against a well-balanced Hisar outfit in the upcoming clash.

Star raider Milan Dahiya has been in tremendous form, earning the Raider of the Match award while scoring back-to-back Super 10s in the league. His stunning Super Raid in the previous game, where he pinned down four opponents in a single raid with his acrobatic skills, has been one of the highlights of the season so far. Providing strong support is local lad Ankit Rana, who has consistently outplayed his opponents, while Rakesh Singroha will aim to maintain his attacking and defensive prowess, offering additional raiding options that have proven difficult for opposition defences to contain. Led by captain Sandeep Narwal, Rohtak Royals will once again rely on their defensive strength, with Aaryan, Sandeep Deswal, Naveen, and Rakesh Singroha forming a formidable wall.

Head Coach Surender Nada expressed confidence ahead of the upcoming clash, saying, “The win against Faridabad was exactly what we needed. The boys responded brilliantly to our tactical adjustments, and the energy in the camp is now fully charged. We’re aware that Hisar is a balanced and competitive team, but we believe the momentum we’ve built will carry us through. It’s important we stay focused and continue improving with every match”.

Hisar Heroes, meanwhile, enter the fixture after a narrow 47–43 win over Panipat Panthers. The Heroes showed resilience in that contest, mounting a second-half comeback highlighted by a timely Super Raid from marquee raider Ashu Malik. Nitesh Kumar anchored the defence with disciplined tackling and positioning. With a balanced mix of raiding and defensive options, Hisar present a competitive challenge for the Royals in the upcoming clash.

Rohtak Royals have partnered with ixigo, John Players, Campus Activewear, Knack Pro Sports and MuscleBlaze as their official Travel, Loungewear, Footwear, Hydration and Nutrition Partners, respectively.

The tie had been finely poised at 3–3 after six bouts, before Player of the Match Iryna Koliadenko produced a dramatic comeback win by fall in the seventh bout to swing momentum decisively in Haryana’s favour. UP Dominators, who finish with two wins, four points, and 23 bout wins, now sit fourth and will have to wait on the outcome of the Punjab Royals versus Delhi Dangal Warriors match to determine their semi-final fate. Tapsya Gahlawat was named Fighter of the Match for her standout performance for UP Dominators.

Haryana made a strong start through narrow, high-pressure victories in the opening two bouts. In the 76kg women’s contest, Kajal Dhochack edged past Mansi Lather in a tightly fought bout that finished 3–3, clinching the decision on last point scored after responding to an early takedown with a crucial second-period takedown and a passivity point. The momentum continued in the 57kg men’s bout, where Ankush Chandram and Rahul Deswal were locked at 4–4 before Ankush’s scoring sequence proved decisive on last point criteria, doubling Haryana’s advantage.

UP Dominators responded emphatically in the 57kg women’s bout through Tapsya Gahlawat. After an even opening exchange, Tapsya took complete control in the Power Minute, scoring two decisive takedowns in Phase 6 to pull away for a commanding 10–3 victory and reduce the deficit. The tie was then levelled in the 65kg men’s category as Vishal Kali Raman produced a spirited comeback against Tumur Ochir Tulga, capitalising on passivity calls, a successful challenge, and a decisive Power Minute takedown followed by a push-out to secure a 9–6 win.

Haryana regained the lead in the marquee 53kg women’s bout through captain Yui Susaki. The former Olympic champion capitalised on multiple turn-and-exposure sequences to race to an 8–0 lead, before Antim Panghal became the first wrestler to score points against Susaki in PWL 2026 with a late surge in the opening period. The second period unfolded as a tactical duel, but Susaki’s experience ensured she closed out an 8–3 victory, putting Haryana ahead 3–2.

UP Dominators drew level once again in the 86kg men’s bout as Mykhailov Vasyl produced a patient and well-timed performance against Ashirov Ashraf. After Ashirov led early through passivity and a takedown, Vasyl forced a passivity call before executing a decisive four-point takedown in the Power Minute to claim a 5–3 win and make it 3–3.

The turning point of the match arrived in the 62kg women’s bout. Nisha Dahiya struck first with an early takedown, but Iryna Koliadenko responded emphatically in the second period with a powerful takedown and seamless turn sequence, forcing a fall to hand Haryana a crucial 4–3 lead and swing momentum decisively in their favour.

Anirudh Gulia then ensured there was no way back for UP Dominators in the heavyweight clash. After Jaspooran Singh picked up early points through push-outs and a caution, Gulia dominated the second period with a takedown-and-turn combination and successive Power Minute takedowns to seal an authoritative 11–5 victory, confirming Haryana’s match win and top-of-the-table finish.

Haryana rounded off the night with another composed performance in the 74kg men’s bout as Parvinder defeated Abhimanyu Mandwal 8–5. Parvinder established control early with a takedown and back-to-back turn exposures, absorbed late pressure in the second period, and responded with a crucial takedown to close out the contest and cap a dominant team performance.