Assam has significantly strengthened its athletic infrastructure with the launch of a National Centre of Excellence for Swimming situated in Amingaon within the Kamrup district. The initiative underscores the state administration's commitment to building a robust pipeline of competitive sportspersons capable of excelling on both national and global platforms.
Expanding the Amingaon Sports Cluster
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma officially opened the facility on Friday, adding another landmark to the growing cluster of athletic complexes in Amingaon. The inauguration coincided with the formal signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding involving the Assam Sports Authority, the Sports Authority of India, and the Badminton Association of India.
Olympic-Standard Infrastructure
Developed at an estimated financial outlay of Rs 50 crore, the facility meets strict international and Olympic standards. It features a 50-metre, nine-lane competition pool alongside a 25-metre diving pool, complemented by spectator galleries with a seating capacity of 1,309 individuals.
Training and Residential Facilities
The newly minted center will initially house 40 residential athletes. Furthermore, local swimmers will gain access to specialized training programs under a unique initiative by the Sports Authority of India, ensuring that the benefits of the complex extend well beyond the residential trainees.
Long-Term Management by National Body
Under the terms of the signed agreement, the Sports Authority of India will manage and operate the National Centre of Excellence for Swimming for a duration of 30 years. The central sports organization will oversee daily administration, appoint expert coaches and support staff, procure necessary athletic gear, and organize training camps and tournaments.
Nurturing Elite Potential
Drawing parallels with the success of badminton players like Asmita Chaliha who trained at the local Badminton National Centre of Excellence, Sarma expressed strong optimism that the swimming facility will produce athletes who can secure medals at premier international events.
Broader Infrastructure Developments in Guwahati
Highlighting ongoing regional developments, the Chief Minister noted that a major cricket stadium currently under construction in Amingaon is slated for inauguration in 2027.
Enhanced Connectivity and Parking
The cricket venue is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 300 crore. To ease congestion and improve access across the three sports facilities in Amingaon, authorities are widening the adjacent roadway and planning a multi-level parking structure capable of accommodating around 2,000 vehicles. Dedicated accommodation blocks are also being built for visiting athletes and coaching staff.
Upgrading Existing Complexes
In addition to the Amingaon projects, the government has prioritized upgrading the Arjuna Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex at Sarusajai, with renovation work scheduled to commence this year. Concurrently, a FIFA-compliant football arena is taking shape at the historic Nehru Stadium site within the Radha Gobinda Baruah Sports Complex.
A Growing Regional Sporting Hub
With these comprehensive projects moving forward, the state administration anticipates that Guwahati will firmly establish itself as a premier national sporting destination. Efforts are also underway to introduce international-grade athletic facilities in Dibrugarh. The government remains steadfast in its financial commitment to sports development, ensuring future generations receive top-tier coaching and competitive exposure.
