Kathmandu, May 29: Reciting the Budget Speech for Fiscal Year 2024/25 at the Parliament on Tuesday, Minister for Finance, Barsaman Pun, informed that a budget of Rs. 3.5 billion was allocated to the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Last fiscal year, Rs. 2.875 billion was allocated for the ministry.

According to the Speech, the government will take steps to increase opportunities for all in sports, including a rise in participation of women in sports. 

“National players will be trained and prepared to win medals at the Olympics and Asian Games. Athletes making the country proud will be awarded for motivation,” read the Budget Speech.

The government has also assured to organise at least 80 national-level sports tournaments in 2024/25. “Nepal’s traditional sports like baghchal, dandi biyo and horse riding will be promoted. An international competition in e-sports will be hosted,” Finance Minister Pun said in his speech.

Similarly, the government has allocated Rs. 600 million for the 10th National Games being hosted by Karnali Province. 

Meanwhile, as per the 61st Annual Report Office of the Auditor General, the 9th National Games required Rs. 534.892 million.

Likewise, the government is moving forward with the construction of Mulpani Cricket Academy of Kathmandu and Girija Prasad Koirala Stadium of Morang as national pride projects.

“The construction of Gautam Buddha International Cricket Stadium will move forward with the coordination between the federal, provincial and local government. Upgrade of TU International Cricket Ground and construction of Fapla International Cricket Ground will be prioritised. I have allocated Rs. 1.30 billion for sports infrastructures,” said Minister Pun while addressing the Parliament.

Alongside managing sports scholarships for students and organising school-level tournaments, teachers will also be trained in sports. 

“Sports economy will be strengthened by coordinating with the private sector in the construction, operation and management of stadiums. Private companies’ social responsibility will be incorporated with sports,” Minister Pun said.

Minister Pun also informed that the government will conduct the ‘Youths for Nation Building’ programme to generate jobs for at least 100,000 university graduates. The Budget has also assured fellowships to 1,000 youths in health, education, tourism, agriculture and information technology sectors.