Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has hailed the launch of ‘Notun Kuri Sports’, a nationwide initiative designed to identify and support talented young athletes from rural and local communities.
In a statement released on Friday, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman described the programme as a critical move to modernise the country’s sporting landscape. Inspired by the historical "Notun Kuri" talent search, the new scheme will focus on children aged between 12 and 14, providing them with a professional path toward elite competition.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the government now views sports as a "respectable and lucrative profession" rather than just a pastime. He pledged that the administration would work to ensure long-term financial security for those who pursue athletics as a career.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman also highlighted the social impact of the initiative, arguing that organised sports are essential for building a disciplined generation. He noted that engaging young people in physical activity is a key strategy in steering them away from drug abuse and the negative effects of excessive digital screen time.
To support these emerging talents, the government has announced state-sponsored scholarships and access to high-performance training at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan (BKSP). The goal is to transform grassroots participants into international competitors who can represent the nation on the world stage.
The Prime Minister concluded by calling for a coordinated effort from all stakeholders to ensure the programme brings a lasting change to the country's sporting culture.
