The Ravindra Kishore Shahi Sports Stadium in the Deoria district is home to a basketball court built at Rs 50 lakh in 2012. However, despite its construction, the court has deteriorated without ever being played due to the negligence of the sports directorate. This has raised questions about the intentions of those responsible for promoting sports in the area.Lack of Facilities Stunts Basketball DevelopmentThe failure to provide adequate facilities and support has severely hindered the growth of basketball in the Deoria district. The lack of coaches and infrastructure has left national and district-level basketball players without the necessary training facilities to develop their skills. The court was allegedly built to save money without any intention of providing the necessary support to take basketball forward in the area.Court in Disrepair Despite Expectations of Developing TalentSenior players in the district expected the basketball court at Ravindra Kishore Shahi Sports Stadium to help nurture basketball talent in the district. However, without coaches or other necessary infrastructure, basketball players cant progress, and the sport has stagnated in the district. The synthetic surface of the court has broken down in places, making it unsuitable for games.Funds Allocated for Repairs, but More Support Needed for SportsSports Officer Raj Narayan Prasad has announced that the government has sanctioned funds to repair the basketball court. However, a lack of sustained support for sports and athletics in India remains a major issue. To promote sports and nurture athletic talent in the country, greater investment in facilities, coaches, and training programs is needed. Without such support, athletes cannot progress and reach their full potential.ConclusionThe neglect of the basketball court in the Deoria district reflects the wider issues facing sports in India. A lack of investment and support for facilities, coaches, and training programs prevents athletes from reaching their full potential. While allocating funds for repairs is a positive step, it is only a band-aid solution to a deeper problem. The government and sports directorate must take more proactive measures to promote sports in the country and support the growth of athletic talent at all levels.
