Ministers, Officials Won't Lead Delegations Abroad: Sports Minister

In a historic step, the Sports Ministry has stopped the practice of sending youth delegation headed by ministers and bureaucrats for participation in sports functions in foreign countries.

"Within a week after taking over, I announced the policy decision that youth delegation (for sports events) to foreign countries will be led by the youth icons and the Minister or Union Secretary will not lead the delegation henceforth", Union Sports Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said.

"A minister has no business to pretend as youth icon or sportsman. It should be led by the youth icon," Singh added.

"Very soon we will come out with the list of the youth icons, who have a wider acceptability and who are capable of inspiring the youth and are capable guiding them.

"The minister's role will be that of facilitator and and formulation of policy", he added.

Taking the first step in this direction, Singh has opted out from heading a delegation to China scheduled for June 16 and 17.

"In upcoming tour to China, the minister has volunteered out and the Secretary (Youth Affairs and Sports)has been asked to remain out", he said.

The minister said that the ambassador of India in China will lead the delegation.

"The ceremonial role of the heading the delegation will be performed by Ambassador of India in China. This will also be great saving on the exchequer of India," he said.