Ministry issues preventive steps

 In wake of the suicide attempt by four girl trainees of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Alappuzha, Sports Ministry has asked Sports Authority of India (SAI) to implement a series of corrective measures, including the introduction of sports psychologists and 24x7 helpline, to prevent such incident in future.

  “SAI should empanel counseling psychologists to visit its centers once in a fortnight or once in a month, as may be required, for the purpose of group counseling as well as one-on-one counseling,” the Ministry said in a release.

“Also, two-day module on sports psychology should be prepared in consultation with AIIMS and introduced in all SAI centers.” The ministry also lobbied for a 24x7 helpline for “grievance redressal, especially for reporting the cases of sexual harassment and ragging.”

Ministry emphasised on the importance of yoga. “Yoga should be introduced as a compulsory activity in all SAI centers, as it would have a salutary effect on holistic development and emotional well-being of SAI trainees.”

 “Security should be hired for all SAI hostels.  Parent Coach Administrator Meet (P-CAM) should be held at least once in three months. SAI Governing body members should visit at least one SAI centre in a quarter for strong supervision.

The ministry also stated its desire to involve iconic sportsperson to inspire young trainees. “The sportspersons may adopt a SAI centre each as per their choice and visit it once in a quarter. Apart from interacting with the trainees, they should also provide feedback to SAI for bringing about continuous improvement.

“All eligible SAI trainees should be covered under the newly introduced Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). The remaining should be covered under normal insurance scheme. All SAI trainees, including day boarding trainees should be assisted for opening bank account.”