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Nestled in the scenic town of Rajgir, the Rajgir Sports Complex is more than just a venue—it’s the dawn of a new sporting era in Bihar. With the Asian Champions Trophy marking its grand debut on November 11, the complex stands as a testament to the state’s ambitious journey to reclaim its place on the national and international sports stage.
Revolutionizing Bihar’s Sports Scene
The Rajgir Sports Complex is no ordinary facility. It boasts Bihar’s first and only Astroturf, a significant milestone for a state traditionally underrepresented in elite sports infrastructure. Envisioned in 2012 and brought to fruition in 2017, this sprawling 97.9-acre marvel is more than a hockey venue—it’s the heartbeat of a larger sporting vision for Bihar.
राज्य खेल अकादमी एवं बिहार खेल-विश्वविद्यालय-सह-राज्य खेल परिसर, राजगीर में आयोजित बिहार वीमेंस एशियन हॉकी चैम्पियंस ट्रॉफी का शुभारंभ किया। बिहार में पहली बार 11 से 20 नवंबर 2024 तक राजगीर में बिहार वीमेंस एशियन हॉकी चैम्पियंस ट्रॉफी का आयोजन हो रहा है। इस प्रतियोगिता में छः… pic.twitter.com/NHkCtWABxx
— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) November 11, 2024
Plans are already underway to add four more Astroturf pitches across the state, including two in Patna, one in Purnia, and an additional turf within the Rajgir complex itself. According to Ravindran Sankaran, Director General of the Bihar State Sports Authority, the excitement is palpable. “The moment we opened the portal for online passes, the stadium was fully booked within 20 minutes,” he shared, highlighting the enthusiasm of the local community.
A Multisport Haven
The Rajgir Sports Complex is designed to host facilities for 23 different sports, both indoor and outdoor. This extensive infrastructure, developed at a cost exceeding ₹700 crores, aims to transform Bihar into a sports hub. Among the standout features is an international-standard cricket stadium with a seating capacity of 45,000, poised to revitalize the state’s cricket scene.
Academies and Future Athletes
The first batch of beneficiaries are the hockey players from Ekalavya Residential Sports Schools. Ninety young athletes will now train on the cutting-edge Astroturf while residing in the complex’s academy. Other academies catering to diverse sports disciplines are slated to commence operations by mid-2025, further solidifying the complex’s role as a nurturing ground for future champions.
A Landmark Sports University
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Rajgir Sports Complex is its integrated Sports University. This institution is set to offer specialized courses in sports psychology, science, and nutrition, alongside coaches’ development programs. By fostering expertise in these fields, the university aims to bridge the gap between passion for sports and professional excellence.
A New Chapter Begins
As Japan and South Korea face off in the tournament opener, the electrifying atmosphere in Rajgir is only a glimpse of what’s to come. With its unparalleled facilities and visionary approach, the Rajgir Sports Complex promises to shape not just athletes but the very identity of sports in Bihar.
For a state yearning to reclaim its sporting glory, this is just the beginning. The Rajgir Sports Complex isn’t just a venue—it’s a beacon of hope and a symbol of transformation.
