Bhogeswar Baruah Criticizes Lack of Sports Infrastructure, Equipment in Assam

By A Staff Reporter

Guwahati: 1966 Asian Games gold medallist and Arjuna awardee Bhogeswar Baruah has raised serious concerns over the lack of sports infrastructure and essential training equipment in Assam. Speaking to the media, Baruah criticized the state sports authorities for failing to organize camps and provide the necessary resources for athletes.

"You go and ask the Director of Sports. They have not organised a camp for so many years! Why is it not happening nowadays?" Baruah said, expressing his frustration over the neglect of athletics in the state.

The veteran sprinter, who has been a prominent figure in Assam's sporting community, further elaborated on the shortage of basic equipment. "I had even sought equipment saying that we would hold a camp. Give at least one set of hurdles for training. You need 10 hurdles in one line, but we sought five for training. There is no jumper, pole vaulter — nothing is available," he added, highlighting the severe lack of resources for athletes to practice and compete effectively.

Baruah’s remarks underscore a growing concern over the state of sports development in Assam, where athletes continue to struggle with inadequate training facilities and a lack of basic equipment. Despite the state’s rich sporting culture and history, including success stories like Baruah’s own achievements, the infrastructure has failed to keep pace with the needs of athletes.

His comments serve as a call to action for the authorities to invest in sports development and ensure that athletes are equipped with the necessary tools to excel. Baruah’s concerns echo the broader issue of inadequate government support for sports in many parts of the country, especially in less prominent regions.

As India looks toward greater success in global sporting events, voices like Baruah's are crucial in urging the government and sports bodies to take more proactive steps in nurturing athletic talent at the grassroots level.