TFP Bureau, Korba; August 30, 2024: Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a key player in India’s aluminium industry and part of Vedanta Aluminium, celebrated National Sports Day by deepening its commitment to grassroots sports development. As part of its ongoing efforts to foster a passion for sports among local youth, BALCO distributed sports kits to communities, reinforcing its dedication to nurturing young talent.
The initiative saw the distribution of sports kits, including equipment for Badminton, Hockey, Cricket, Football, Basketball, and Volleyball, to local sports committees in various communities. In the current fiscal year, BALCO has provided these kits to five localities, with plans to extend this support further. So far, over 3,700 youth have benefited from this initiative, gaining access to essential sports equipment and opportunities to hone their skills. This program is particularly impactful in regions where access to sports resources is limited, ensuring that children and young adults can participate in regular physical activities.
Reflecting on the initiative, BALCO’s CEO & Director, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, remarked,
“This year’s remarkable performance by Indian athletes at the Olympics has highlighted the immense potential of our youth. At BALCO, we believe in nurturing this potential from the grassroots level. By providing proper sports equipment and opportunities for regular physical activity, we are laying the foundation for future champions. Initiatives like these not only promote a healthy lifestyle but also inspire young minds to pursue excellence in sports, potentially elevating our nation’s standing on the global stage.”
The impact of BALCO’s initiative is echoed by local leaders like Meena Bai Kanwar, Sarpanch of Sonpuri, who noted, “BALCO has always been dedicated to improving our communities. Their efforts in health, education, and livelihoods have made a real difference, and now, by providing sports equipment, they’re helping our youth stay active and healthy.”
BALCO’s commitment to fostering a culture of sportsmanship extends beyond just providing equipment. The company also actively manages the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Stadium in Balconagar, which has become a crucial space for local youth to develop and refine their sports skills. With an average monthly footfall of 9,000 sports enthusiasts and a seating capacity of 5,000, the stadium supports training in sports like cricket, volleyball, basketball, hockey, kabaddi, and taekwondo. By offering access to such a well-equipped facility, BALCO is creating pathways for aspiring athletes to advance in their respective sports, empowering them to pursue their dreams with the necessary skills and confidence.
