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JLN Stadium to be turned into Sports City: Sports Ministry source
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Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 6:22 GMT by ThePrint- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
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JLN Stadium to Be Transformed into a Modern Sports City: A Vision for India's Athletic Future
The Indian Sports Ministry has unveiled an ambitious plan to convert the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium into a sprawling sports city, a development that could redefine the sporting landscape of Delhi and the nation. The announcement, sourced from a government statement, signals a shift from a single-purpose venue into a multi-functional hub designed to nurture talent, host international events, and stimulate local economic growth.
The Legacy of JLN Stadium
JLN Stadium, constructed in 1965, has long been a symbol of India’s sporting heritage. The stadium hosted the 1982 Asian Games and the 2010 Commonwealth Games, providing a stage for athletes across disciplines. Despite its storied past, the stadium had suffered from underutilization in recent years. With fewer high-profile fixtures and limited maintenance, the venue had become a relic rather than a living arena.
The transformation into a sports city is seen as a remedy to this decline. By redefining its purpose, the ministry hopes to restore the stadium’s glory and ensure it remains a dynamic center for sports development.
What the Sports City Will Look Like
According to the ministry’s release, the new sports city will encompass a range of facilities, including:
Multi‑Sport Complexes: Dedicated zones for cricket, football, hockey, and athletics, each with world‑class standards for training and competition. The cricket pavilion will feature state‑of‑the‑art practice nets, a full‑size indoor stadium, and a coaching academy. Football and hockey fields will be laid with premium turf, while the athletics track will meet International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) specifications.
Indoor Arenas and Training Centers: Four indoor arenas for sports such as basketball, badminton, and volleyball, each equipped with modern lighting, acoustics, and video‑analysis systems. A dedicated high‑performance training center will provide athletes with physiotherapy, nutrition, and sports science support.
Educational and Research Facilities: A sports science research institute will collaborate with national universities and the Indian Institute of Sports Science. A coaching academy will provide certification courses for trainers and coaches.
Spectator Experience Enhancements: Upgraded seating capacity, advanced ticketing technology, and hospitality suites will aim to increase fan engagement and revenue generation.
Infrastructure Upgrades: A new multi‑level parking structure, pedestrian pathways, and smart traffic management systems will address congestion during major events. Green initiatives such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting will align with sustainable development goals.
The plan also emphasizes the integration of the stadium into the surrounding urban fabric. The new sports city will be connected to Delhi’s metro network, and public transport hubs will be expanded to accommodate large crowds. The architecture aims to blend contemporary design with the historical ethos of JLN Stadium, preserving its iconic façade while adding modern extensions.
Government and Stakeholder Support
The transformation is backed by a robust financial commitment. The ministry estimates a budget of ₹700 crore (approximately $86 million) to cover construction, renovations, and operational costs over a five‑year period. The Delhi government will contribute through the Delhi Sports Development Authority, while the central government will provide additional funds through the National Sports Development Programme.
In a joint statement, the Sports Minister highlighted the collaboration with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF). “This project will create a one‑stop destination for all sports, encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams in a world‑class environment,” the minister said. The BCCI has expressed enthusiasm, noting that the new facilities could serve as a testing ground for Indian cricket’s emerging talent.
The Ministry also announced an outreach initiative to partner with local schools, colleges, and community clubs. Free or subsidized training programs will be offered, aimed at tapping grassroots talent and widening the talent pool across the nation.
Expected Economic and Social Impact
Beyond sporting benefits, the sports city is projected to spur significant economic activity. A study by the Delhi Municipal Corporation estimates that the project could generate approximately 1,200 jobs during construction and 600 permanent positions thereafter. Ancillary industries—such as hospitality, merchandising, and media—are expected to thrive, especially during major sporting events.
Furthermore, the sports city will contribute to Delhi’s tourism sector. By positioning itself as a premium destination for international tournaments, the city could attract millions of visitors, boosting local businesses and the hospitality industry. The Ministry also emphasized health and wellness objectives, hoping the facility will encourage physical activity among Delhi’s residents.
Timeline and Implementation
Construction of the sports city is slated to begin in the second quarter of 2025. The phased approach will allow certain sections to become operational earlier. For instance, the athletics track and the football field are expected to be ready by late 2026, while the indoor arenas will follow in 2027. The full project is projected to be completed by 2030, coinciding with Delhi’s bid to host the 2024 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games.
To ensure transparency and efficiency, the ministry has set up a dedicated Project Management Office (PMO). This office will oversee budgetary control, procurement, and compliance with national building standards. Regular progress reports will be published on the Ministry’s website, ensuring public accountability.
The Path Forward
The JLN Stadium transformation represents a bold vision for India’s sporting future. By converting a historic arena into a modern sports city, the government intends to revitalize a neglected asset, foster athletic excellence, and create economic and social opportunities for the city’s residents. As the project unfolds, it will be closely watched by sports enthusiasts, urban planners, and policymakers alike.
The initiative aligns with India’s broader commitment to elevate its global sporting standing. With dedicated infrastructure, talent development programs, and inclusive outreach, the new JLN Sports City could become a flagship model for other Indian cities seeking to emulate its success.
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[ https://theprint.in/sport/jln-stadium-to-be-turned-into-sports-city-sports-ministry-source/2780833/ ]
