Ranchi: Tensions have once again flared between the Jharkhand Sports Department and the Education Department regarding the management of prominent sporting events such as SGFI competition, Subroto Cup Football, Nehru Cup Hockey, and Khelo Jharkhand. Sports Secretary Manoj Kumar has communicated to Education Secretary K Ravi Kumar, apprising him of the Chief Minister’s directives. The Chief Minister has endorsed and assigned the Sports Department responsibility for sports promotion in accordance with Jharkhand Executive Rules.
In response to the ongoing dispute between the two departments, the Sports Secretary sought guidance from the Chief Minister through the Chief Secretary. The issued letter confirms the Chief Minister’s approval, asserting that the Sports Department will continue to organize all sports events as before. The Education Secretary has been urged to instruct departmental officers to collaborate in these events, maintaining the established protocol.
When questioned about the matter, Program Officer of the Education Department, Dhirsen A. Soreng, expressed unawareness of the letter. He mentioned that if such a directive exists, discussions with the departmental secretary would precede any further action or decision. Emphasizing their focus on child development with over 1800 physical teachers, Soreng highlighted ongoing efforts, particularly in organizing the SGFI.
It’s noteworthy that the Education Department had conducted a press conference on Tuesday regarding the 67th SGFI National School Games, indicating the significance of sporting events in the academic calendar.