Newly appointed Minister of Youth and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel, has emphasized the importance of focusing on player development starting from the grassroots level. Minister Pokharel highlighted that the sports sector presents both challenges and opportunities, and stressed the need to demonstrate progress through action while prioritizing expertise for long-term development. As the chairperson of the Sports Council (RAKEP), he participated in an inspection of ongoing projects at the international sports complex in Satdobato, Hetauda. (March 31, Kathmandu)
During an event held on Tuesday at RAKEP’s own office in Tripureshwor, Minister Pokharel underscored the necessity of developing athletes from the grassroots level and proving results through performance. He stated that, since sports encompass both hurdles and prospects, words are not enough—it is essential to deliver tangible results through dedicated work. He also emphasized respecting the expertise of all stakeholders and utilizing it for the long-term advancement of sports.
Dr. Achyut Lamichhane, a Member of Parliament from the Rastriya Swatantra Party, highlighted the need for collective efforts to advance the nation’s sports sector and called for making the Nepal Sports Science Academy (SAN) more effective. RAKEP member-secretary Ramcharitra Mehta gave a brief overview of RAKEP’s board and executive committee structure, areas of operation, budget, infrastructure status, national sports associations, employee posts, pending athlete awards, the halted special training under Mission-2026, internal resources, and ongoing amendments to the governing act.
Prior to the program, Minister Pokharel was welcomed by member-secretary Mehta along with the RAKEP executive committee members, board members, departmental heads, branch chiefs, and staff. Following the welcoming ceremony, Minister Pokharel inspected several sites under construction at the international sports complex in Satdobato, Hetauda, including the Genji Park, Sports Science Research Center, High Performance Center, and the swimming pool.
