The Hindu Business Line : Farmers' body to hold `Rural Olympics'

THE Federation of Farmers Association (FFA) in partnership with the Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) will be conducting `Rural Olympics' in the State from November to January. The initiative, claimed to be the first of its kind in the country, is estimated to cost Rs 1.2 crore.

According to the FFA Chairman, Mr P. Chengal Reddy, the proposed celebration of sports is aimed at directing the attention of the rural youth towards constructive activities, building social cohesiveness, inculcating interest in sports and games in the rural people and spotting hidden talent.

This being the first year, the games will be held only in 10 districts. In each district eight mandals and in each mandal eight villages are earmarked for the rural games.

"In two years' time, we are hopeful of spreading these activities to other States. Eventually, these Olympics might transform into parallel National Games in the country," Mr Anil Kumar V. Epur, Chief Advisor of FFA and former Chairman of CII (Southern Region), said.

Mr Epur said that so far four companies - Hero Cycles, Indian Oil Corporation, Mahyco and Nutrine - have come forward to sponsor the games. The games included kabaddi, volleyball and three different types of relay races including cycling. Cultural programmes would also be organised during the games at the village, mandal, district and the State level.

The SAAP Chairman, Mr P.N.V. Prasad, said that apart from sanctioning Rs 5 lakh for organising the rural games, SAAP would give equipment, develop the games logo and provide coaches and umpires.

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Farmers' body to hold `Rural Olympics'