35th National games concludes;

 Centre to set up sports University in Kerala

Union Minister of State for Sports (Independent charge) Sarbananda Sonowal has said the Centre will consider setting up a Sports University in Kerala.

He was speaking at the concluding ceremony of the 35th national games at the Kariavattom greenfield stadium in the capital Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.

He urged Government institutions and private sector to provide liberal incentives to sportspersons.

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said it was team effort by multiple agencies that ensured the smooth conduct of the 35th national games.

He announced a financial assistance of Rs. 13 lakh to the next of kin of Mayuresh Pawar, the netball player from Maharashtra, who died in a tragic mishap,while posing for photos with friends at the Shanghumugham beach in Thiruvananthapuram.

Kerala Governor Justice P Sathasivam, who was the chief guest, formally declared close the 35th national games.A colourful marchpast was held by the participating teams.

The next edition of the national games will be held at Goa.

The concluding ceremony was followed by cultural programme by Goan artistes.

Noted actress and dancer Shobhana and her troupe presented a dance performance, presenting the theme 'Rivers of India'.