Date:18/04/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/04/18/stories/2008041854460700.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Sports development fund for Andhra Pradesh

HYDERABAD: The Andhra Pradesh government has given the green signal for the creation of an Andhra Pradesh Sports Development Fund on the lines of the National Sports Development Fund.

The State Cabinet which met here on Thursday cleared the proposal for the creation of sports development fund at the State level by the Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP).

Similar funds would be created at district, mandal and village levels.

SAAP, district sports authority headed by the Collectors would register these funds and raise donations for works like conducting events and creating the required infrastructure.

Prize money

The sports authorities could seek exemption under Section 80 (G) of Income Tax in view of the charitable nature of the funds.

Funds use

Contributors to the funds would be at liberty to specify the use of funds like purchasing equipment, building infrastructure, conducting competitions, giving prize money or sponsoring sportspersons.

Drinking water

Briefing reporters, Information Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy said the government had decided to continue the ongoing Praja Patham programme till the Election Commission of India replies to a clarification sought in this direction and the emphasis would be on drinking water.

Tackling shortage

The Ministers and officials concerned had been asked to suggest temporary and long-term measures to tackle drinking water shortage problems and the government would release the necessary funds to deal with adverse seasonal conditions in coordination with the disaster management authorities.