The government has taken an initiative to preserve one playing field in each of Bangladesh’s 4,599 unions and construct mini stadiums in every upazila to expand sports opportunities at the grassroots level, Youth and Sports State Minister Mohammad Aminul Haque has said.

Speaking as the chief guest at the prize-giving ceremony following the final of the Habib Ullah Chokdar Memorial Football Tournament at Habib Ullah Degree College ground in Sakhipur, Shariatpur, on Friday, Aminul said the government is working to develop sports as a profession and identify talented athletes from grassroots areas.

“There are 4,599 unions in the country. We have taken an initiative to create opportunities for sports by preserving one playing field in each union,” the state minister said. He added that work on constructing mini stadiums in every upazila is also underway.

Aminul said the government wants to provide talented young people from remote parts of the country with opportunities to reach the national level, rather than limiting opportunities to athletes from Dhaka or other major cities.

He also stressed the role of sports in keeping young people away from drugs and crime and helping build a peaceful and disciplined society. Alongside sports, he said, young people should also be encouraged to take part in cultural activities to develop discipline, leadership skills and humanitarian values.

“We believe that through sports and cultural activities, we can guide our youth and future generations towards a beautiful, peaceful and humane society,” Aminul said.