Patna, July 16: Bihar art, cultural and youth affairs minister Sukhda Pandey admitted to the poor condition of stadiums in the state but assured that the issue is a priority with the government, at an event organised by the BJP sports wing at Patna Museum today.

“The stadiums in the state, particularly Moin-ul-Haq, are really in a bad shape and there is an urgent need to work on them. The government has created a favourable atmosphere for sports even though the standard is not on a par with other states. The department is looking to create a good ambience for sportspersons in the state and we are trying our best to support them,” said Pandey.

The minister added: “Sports was not a priority with the earlier government but we are serious about it. We have decided to construct 182 stadiums across the state. The Moin-ul-Haq Stadium will also be repaired soon.”

On sportspersons who migrate to other states in search of better opportunities, Pandey said: “The number has come down, as now you see sportspersons representing Bihar at the National Games. At the recent National Games in Ranchi, our sportspersons won several gold and silver medals. All these indicate better facilities, although it will take time to compete with the other states.”

BJP state president C.P. Thakur, who was also present at the programme, emphasised the importance of popularising different sports like kabaddi, wrestling, football, cycling, archery at the rural, block and district levels.

“The state government should make foolproof strategies to promote sports,” added Thakur.

State president of the BJP sports wing Arvind Kumar Singh informed about the sports events planned in the state this year.