PM Narendra Modi Lays Foundation Stone Of International Cricket Stadium In Varanasi, Inaugurates 16 Schools For Needy Children

What did PM Narendra Modi say?

PM Modi attending the foundation ceremony of the stadium spoke to an audience where he said, "Under the NEP 2020, sports has been put in the same category as science, commerce and other subjects. Earlier, sports was considered an extra activity, but now, it will be taught in schools as a pedagogy."

Further, he expressed elation at the fact that unlike in the past when only metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai had well-equipped stadiums, remote areas are now receiving similar opportunities and advanced equipment for the people living the cities like Varanasi.

PM Modi claimed, "Today, the foundation stone for an international cricket stadium in Varanasi was laid. This is going to be a blessing for the youth of Purvanchal."

Who were present at the function?

Former India cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar and Ravi Shastri, BCCI President Roger Binny, its vice-president Rajiv Shukla and secretary Jay Shah were present on the occasion. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also attended the function.

Cost of the construction

According to the government of Uttar Pradesh, it has spent 121 crores on the acquisition of land in order to build a stadium while the Board of Control for Cricket in India will spend 330 crores.

To be built near the Ring Road in Rajatalab area, the stadium is likely to be ready by December 2025. The spectators' gallery of the stadium would resemble the steps of the ghats of Varanasi.

This will be Uttar Pradesh's third international cricket stadium after Kanpur and Lucknow.

PM Modi inaugurates 16 schools for needy children

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated 16 residential schools for needy children in Uttar Pradesh, built at a cost of about Rs 1,115 crore.

These schools - Atal Awasiya Vidyalayas - have been opened to provide quality education to children of labourers and construction workers and those orphaned in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before dedicating these schools to the nation, Prime Minister Modi interacted with some students.

The residential schools, built at a cost of about Rs 1,115 crore, intend to accommodate 1,000 students each. These will enhance access to quality education and help in the holistic development of children.

Each of the schools is constructed on an area of 10-15 acres with classrooms, playgrounds, recreational areas, a mini auditorium, hostel complex, mess and residential quarters for staff members.