No change in National Games schedule: Chandy

Rubbishing reports of flaws in preparations for the 35th National Games to be held in Kerala from January 31, the Chief Minister Oommen Chandy today said the mega sporting event will be held as per the schedule.
"The National Games will be held as per schedule and the preparations are nearing completion. The reports to contrary are incorrect," Chandy told reporters after a cabinet meeting here.
"All the stadia for conducting the event are ready and they are now getting finishing touches," he added.
Chandy also expressed the hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the state capital to inaugurate the event, as he had personally invited him.

He also denied reports that Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had voiced dissatisfaction at the progress of the preparations.
"There is no room for skepticism of any sort. I will assure you that the Games will be conducted in a foolproof manner as per the schedule," said Chandy.

The Chief Minister also released the video of the Game's theme song, penned by top-notch lyricist Jawed Akthar and music given by singer and music director Hariharan.
Earlier, the State Sports Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan had said that all the venues spread around Kerala would be ready for the Games in time.
Officials of IOA would inspect the venues on January 15 and 16 and "all would be clear after that", Radhakrishnan said when asked whether there was any move to postpone the Games, which will be hosted by Kerala after a gap of 27 years.