SAI to invest in Kerala

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) is all set to invest heavily in Kerala, said Chief Minister Oommen Chandy Wednesday.

Addressing reporters here after the weekly cabinet meeting, Chandy said the cabinet has cleared two proposals for SAI, including a Rs.300 crore-football academy to be set up in Kozhikode.

"They have agreed to set up the academy at the land that will be given by the University of Calicut-Kozhikode. Another proposal that has been cleared is setting up of an international golf course in the capital city," said Chandy.

He said that the in-principle clearance has been given for SAI to take over the Thiruvananthapuram Golf Club here.

"The takeover will take place subject to two conditions. At present there is a case in the Supreme Court relating to the Thiruvananthapuram Golf Club and second, the rights of the existing Golf Club members would be protected," said Chandy.

He also pointed out that talks are going on with SAI for taking over the high-altitude training centre at Munnar in Idukki district.

"My government gives high priority for sports and similar activities and we will do everything possible to see that sports promotion takes place in right earnest," added Chandy.