Ludlow Castle wrestling training venue inaugurated

NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Mrs. Sheila Dikshit and Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Chairman Mr. Suresh Kalmadi on Friday inaugurated the Ludlow Castle Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya, training venue wrestling for the Commonwealth Games.

Mr. Kalmadi appreciated the pace of construction of the Games-related project, expressed confidence that they would all be completed within the stipulated time. He said by organising the Commonwealth Games successfully, India would get an opportunity to lay its claim on hosting the Olympic Games.

The Chief Minister said all projects related to the sporting event would be completed in time and funds would not be a problem as an additional Rs.1,300 crore has already been made available under the Plan outlay for the current year.

Ms. Dikshit said the construction of both Thyagraj Stadium and the Chhatrasal Stadium was also going on at full swing and they are expected to be completed in March, 2010.

Public Works Department Minister Raj Kumar Chauhan said that the construction of the Ludlow Castle venue has been completed in a record time at a cost of Rs.13 crore.

Though the government had sanctioned Rs 20 crore, the project was completed at a cost of Rs 13 crore in 11 months. The venue was built after demolishing the badminton hall. The ground floor has various facilities such as restrooms, gym, cafeteria, physiotherapy centres, doping control centre, changing rooms, sauna bath and a medical centre. The first floor has a training hall, which can accommodate six wrestling mats at a time.

Revamped Karni Singh Shooting Range ready to re-open on Sunday

NEW DELHI: The Commonwealth Games venue for shooting competitions Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range is set to be re-opened on Sunday after being upgraded and renovated. Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. M.S.Gill will dedicate the ranges to the nation.

The construction work at the ranges started on October 25, 2008 with a financial projection of Rs. 150 crore and was completed in 13 months. All existing structures were demolished and completely new ranges with state-of-the-art technology constructed. The ranges for trap and skeet are now converted into composite ranges with state-of-the-art scoring equipment.

The newly built range now provides a world-class sport venue for the Commonwealth Games competition to be held in Delhi in October 2010 as it meets the requirement of Commonwealth Games Federation and the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF). The Commonwealth Shooting Championship will be held at these ranges from Feb 17 to 28.

The venue will provide a first class sporting venue for Indians participating in sport at local, national and international level.

The Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range was first built for 1982 Asian Games. It was named in the honor of Maharaja of erstwhile princely state of Bikaner, Dr Karni Singh who has been a legendary shooter. Maharaja Karni Singh was conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award in 1961. He won the silver medal in the World Shooting Championship in 1962.

Facilities created at the range:

• 10m centrally air-conditioned indoor shooting range with 80 shooting points; Seating capacity of 500 for pistol and small bore rifle.

• 25m range with 50 shooting points for pistol; Seating capacity of 500

• 50m range, which is the largest, with 80 shooting points; Seating capacity for 500

• Six composite shotgun ranges for trap and skeet; Seating capacity of 2000

• Newly constructed air-conditioned armory building; fitted with secured doors and other equipment for storing arms and ammunition

• Shooting points equipped with LCD displays which will flash the scores

• State of the art electronic target and scoring system supplied by Suis Ascor for rifle and pistol ranges and Laporte for trap and skeet ranges

• Green campus spread over a vast area of 72 acres in the backdrop of Adilabad Fort

• The trap and skeet ranges have the majestic Adilabad Fort as the backdrop

• All ranges are equipped with lighting facility to provide 2200 Lux of light for high definition TV coverage

• Minimum hard pavement provided to allow Maximum greenery. Over 1000 new trees planted

• Buildings and structures complying with the requirements of international sports association in terms of geometry and strength

• Seating design to achieve optimum sight lines

• Automatic electronic scoring target systems recognised by ISSF for Olympics, World Cup and World Championship

• Use of special rubber wood in bullet catchers

• Air-conditioned lounges in all ranges

• Energy saving VRV system for air-conditioning

• Use of natural lighting with heat resistant glazing system

• External development in conformity with local undulating terrain

OC-AFI workshop prepares track and field technical officials for Delhi 2010

NEW DELHI: A three-day Athletics Officials Workshop is being conducted by the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi and Athletics Federation of India, commenced at the Organising Committee Headquarter here. The workshop will train a pool of nearly 200 technical officials for track and field events for the Commonwealth Games.

“The workshop is a reflection of the commitment of the Organising Committee towards enhancing the knowledge of the technical officials in India across various sports,” Organising Committee Chairman Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, MP, said. “Such workshops are being conducted from time to time to ensure that we conduct the Commonwealth Games spotlessly.”

International Association of Athletics Federation Council Member Mr. Bill Bailey, who is the Technical Delegate for Commonwealth Games, and International Para-Olympic Committee member Mr. Tarek Souei, the Technical Delegate for Para Sport at the Commonwealth Games, are conducting the workshop. The topics covered include new rules, roles, protocols, duties, reporting, sports equipment, venue and store, etc.

“The workshop is very well attended by officials from all over India,” Mr. Bailey said. “It is beginning of the process of training various teams of judges and officials to organise and conduct big competition. The participants were very enthusiastic and cooperative. We will be following it up with opportunities for further training and practice.”

Former National high jump record holder N Annavi was all praise for the workshop. “We are getting very important information for the total conduct of the event,” he said. “We are informed about our specific duties and systemization of the games conduct as per international standards.”

Former National triple jumper Md. Nizamuddin echoed that. “Mr. Bailey is very experienced and we are drawing from his experience. We have already 10 workshops under Mr. C K Valson and learnt lot about the changing rules, their adaptation and implementation on ground. The participants for the workshop have been selected after a rigorous process and this is for the first time that we are conducting lAAf’s Level 1 exam for six groups of 20 each.”

The workshop will conclude on Sunday and all participants will be officiating in the National Cross Country Championships to be held here on January 31.

Shera flags off walk aimed at creating greater Cancer awareness

NEW DELHI: Saluting the undying spirit of cancer survivors, Shera, the affable mascot of the Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, flagged off the annual Cancer Awareness Walk organised by the Indian Cancer Society on Sunday. Dr. M. S. Gill, Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports was the Chief Guest at the event.

The Walk is organised each year to spread awareness about cancer. The walk aims to drive home the two most important aspects about cancer: That it is curable when detected early and that there is life after cancer.

Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi staff extended their support to the fight against cancer by participating in the walk in large numbers. Over 3,000 people including cancer survivors and their families, patients and families, children suffering from cancer and their parents, doctors, nurses, NCC cadets, Armed Forces personnel and members of Indian Cancer Society and other cancer organisations like Roko Cancer and Global Cancer Concern India participated.

“Besides creating awareness, the Indian Cancer Society gets young people to meet and walk with cancer patients during the walk, so that they see them as ‘People like us’,” said Mrs. Jyotsna Govil, Additional Secretary, Indian Cancer Society.

Shera spread the message of togetherness, joy and belonging in the true spirit of the Commonwealth Games. He brought a lot of cheer to those gathered at the Air Force Bal Bharati School and lighted up the faces of all children as he mingled with everyone. The participants witnessed a lot of excitement and the school came alive with cheers, claps, smiles from everyone who were surprised by his visit.

Team India committed to hosting best Commonwealth Games ever

Central Bank of India to sell tickets through its branches

New Delhi: Speaking at the occasion of the inauguration of the first ATM for the games by Central Bank of India, the Official Banker for the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi at the OC headquarters, Chairman of Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, MP, thanked Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Sports Minister Dr. M.S.Gill and Mrs. Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister of Delhi for their personal involvement and deep commitment and support in upholding the vision of the Organising Committee of holding the best ever Commonwealth Games.

"Team India is working towards the success of the Commonwealth Games" he added.

Mr. Kalmadi also stressed on the partnership with Central Bank of India, the first Swadeshi Bank of India and outlined that the partnership would see Central Bank of India retailing the tickets for the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi across its vast network in the country.

"Our partnership with Commonwealth Games has started with Shera, the official Mascot of the Commonwealth Games being the first to withdraw cash from the ATM. We are going to ensure that we partner the Organising Committee in hosting the Games successfully. We will use our strong network to convey the spirit of sportsmanship and take the message of Commonwealth Games across India" said, Mr. S. Sridhar, CMD, Central Bank of India.

Outlining the progress made so far Mr. Kalmadi said, "Delhi is getting a sporting legacy on account of the rapid infrastructure development we are seeing in the city. Metro, world class airport will propel Delhi as a modern city with top amenities and will pave the way for further sporting action for the country."

Expressing his delight at the inauguration of the ATM, Mr.T.S. Darbari, Joint Director General, Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi said that, "Through this partnership Central Bank of India has access to a global platform of the Commonwealth nations which can assist the bank to achieve a higher intyernational presence. Powerful synergies can evolve in the activity of the Commonwealth Business Club of India."

Also present at the occasion was Mr. Parimal Rai, Chairman, NDMC who congratulated the Organising Committee and Central Bank of India in starting a new chapter as a lead up to the Games.

Games to bring cheer to the hotel industry

Wednesday, February 3, 2010 - 18:00

India

New Delhi: The results for December quarter have reinforced the positive sentiment building up for the hotel industry. There is a healthy rise in occupancy level as well as revenue per available rooms. The industry has rebounded as a result of this. The Economic Times reports that the leading players in the industry reflect the change in fortunes with industrial growth back on track.

The XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi to be held in October this year are expected to ensure that the earnings of the hotel industry are further boosted in the next fiscal.

Not only the industry’s biggies will gain from the Commonwealth Games, but mid- and small-sized players would also benefit, thanks to the overall rise in business in the industry.

For the December quarter, all the big players saw a rise of over 50% in their sales while their net profit vaulted by over 100% compared to the year-ago period.

Much of this optimism is also reflected in the rising hotel occupancy figures in the top four cities. In the Mumbai region, for instance, the occupancy levels for Indian Hotels properties shot up to 71% during the third quarter from 55% in the second quarter and 51% in the first quarter.

The company’s revenue per available room (RevPAR) for the Mumbai region jumped to Rs 6,503 in December 2009 quarter from Rs 4,810 in the previous quarter. The industry is on course for a bigger and better quarter as occupancy levels and ReVPAR continues to rise in major centres.

Central Bank of India joins Delhi 2010 as Official Banking Partner

NEW DELHI: Central Bank of India, one of the country`s leading Nationalised banks, on Monday became the Official Bank Partner for the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. They join Air India, NTPC and Hero Honda in the Delhi 2010 Games family as its partners.

Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, MP, Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Chairman and Mr. S. Sridhar, Central Bank of India Chairman and Managing Director signed a Memorandum of Understanding to this effect at the headquarters of the Organising Committee of Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. (Both are seen the photo).

“The Year of the Games has dawned and I am pleased to welcome India`s first ‘Swadeshi Bank’ as our Official Banking Partner in India,” Mr. Kalmadi said. “The partnership will be mutually beneficial to us. The message and impact of the Commonwealth Games can be felt not just in Delhi but also across the country because the bank has a large network of 3541 branches and 218 extension counters in 27 States and four Union Territories.

“Truly described as a pan-India bank, due to its large network, Central Bank of India will find the Commonwealth Games platform to help it realise Mr. Sridhar`s vision of becoming a global bank. The Games hold interest not only in the 70 nations and territories but also beyond, especially in nations where a large number of NRIs will be tracking the sporting contests,” Mr. Kalmadi said.

“I am thankful to Mr. Sridhar and his team for such warmth and spontaneity. It is in keeping with Central Bank of India`s wonderful track record of supporting sport in India. The bank has associated itself with many events including the 1982 Asian Games, many tennis tournaments and veterans` hockey series,” he said.

“l am delighted that India`s first `Swadeshi bank` has come on board as our banking partner in our bid not only to host a successful Commonwealth Games but also to showcase India as a travel and economic destination,” he said.

“The Commonwealth Business Club of India initiative, with FICCI and CII as our partners, will showcase the synergy between sport and business houses and will go a long way in helping us find overseas partners,” Mr. Kalmadi said.

The Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Chairman also said that the Central Bank of India’s network would be used for sale of tickets and merchandise in the run up to and during that Games that start on October 3, 2010.

Mr. Sridhar acknowledged the support from the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi and said that Central Bank of India has always been a part of various events on the national level. He also gave an account of the performance of the Bank and informed that the Bank has turned the corner during the current fiscal.

India can win a lot of tennis medals: Mahesh Bhupathi

CHENNAI: Indian tennis players can win a lot of medals at stake in the Commonwealth Games says Mahesh Bhupathi, the 35-year-old ace who has 11 Grand Slam doubles titles under his belt.

“It has become big for us because it is being played in our backyard for the first time. Personally, I feel India have a huge chance of winning quite a few medals at the Commonwealth Games,” he told The Telegraph. “Actually, we can sweep all the medals at stake (in tennis), but for that we have to play well and plan properly,” he said.

Mahesh Bhupathi believes that his combination with Leander Paes remains India’s best chance for a gold in the doubles of the Commonwealth Games to be held in Delhi later this year. “It is still Leander and I who have the best chance of winning gold,” he said when asked about the possibility of his pairing up with Rohan Bopanna.

Leander Paes, who has 10 Grand Slam doubles titles, and Mahesh Bhupathi won three Grand Slam titles together.

Leander Paes urges Commonwealth teams to experience India

NEW DELHI: Indian tennis ace Leander Paes has urged New Zealand and other members of the Commonwealth Games Federation to overcome security concerns and send their teams to the Commonwealth Games to be held here later this year.

Leander Paes told the Sunday News in an interview during the Auckland`s Open that he believed every possible step would be taken to ensure the safety of athletes and appealed to Commonwealth governments to trust India’s efforts. “I`m sure everything that`s possible will be done, so please, come forward and experience my country,” he said.

“There will be high security measures taken at the Commonwealth Games because it`s like an Olympics or Asian Games,” Leander Paes said. “I am sure the security will be fantastic. India is a great country, we have a lot to show for ourselves as far as tourism, business and sport goes.”

He said the level of threat in India was manageable. “I am 100 per cent certain that it will be safe,” he said. “Anti-terrorism security is everywhere in the world… This generation around the world lives under constant threat. It`s all about how you look at it, security and the way we approach such situations.”

Ticket for CommonWealth Games

Ticket Sales Launch for Commonwealth Games Associations

The Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi has launched the first phase of tickets sales to all Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs); the Ticket Order Form inclusive of prices has been mailed to the CGAs.

The CGAs will have three opportunities of purchase:

• First Phase - Purchase period commencing

• 15 November 2009 - 15 January 2010
• Second Phase - Purchase opportunity from

• 15 January 2010 - 31 March 2010
• Ongoing from the May 2010 up to and during the Games

For more details, please check the following link to the Ticketing Manual or write to tanuj.malhotra@cwgdelhi2010.org

Tickets for General Public

Tickets for the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi will be on sale in May 2010 and 1.7 million tickets will be available. Tickets are subject to availability, and will remain on sale until the start of each event.

We will be launching our ticket-sales programme in April 2010.This will give registered supporters a chance to receive ticketing news and information. Please visit our website regularly for updates.

We aim to give as many people as possible the chance to attend the Games, ensuring a great atmosphere for all the events.

There will also be free events, including Road Cycling and Marathon. These events will take place at Central Vista (India Gate) and Greater Noida Expressway.

Caution

Don’t be fooled by bogus websites and organisations claiming to sell tickets for the Games. Tickets will only be available via official Delhi 2010 sales channels and the Games website.

If you are being offered the Games tickets otherwise, you can send us an e-mail at tanuj.malhotra@cwgdelhi2010.org.

Boxing Schedule at CommonWealth Games,

Venue: Talkatora Indoor Stadium
Training Venue
• Delhi University – 4 Rings

Boxing is one of the few to have featured on every Commonwealth Games Programme. Delhi 2010 will feature events in 11 weight categories, over 5 - 13 October 2010, at the Talkatora Indoor Stadium.

Categories	Weight
Light Flyweight	46-49 kg
Flyweight	52 kg
Bantamweight	56 kg
Lightweight	60 kg
Light Welterweight	64 kg
Welterweight	69 kg
Middleweight	75 kg
Light Heavyweight	81 kg
Heavyweight	91 kg
Super heavyweight	+91 kg

Entry

One athlete for each Weight Category from a CGA

Hockey Schedule at CommonWealth Games

Venue: Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (MDC National Stadium)
Training Venues
• MDC National Stadium
• Shivaji Stadium
• Yamuna Sports Complex

Hockey is one of three team sports to be introduced to the Commonwealth Games Programme in Kuala Lumpur 1998. Two events –team competitions, men and women - will be held at Delhi 2010 at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium between 4 - 14 October 2010.

Entries
Men: 10 Teams
Women: 10 Teams

Entry to be received by OC
• By NUMBER – 3 April 2010
• By NAME – 3 September 2010

M2006 Placings

• Men
1. Australia
2. Pakistan
3. Malaysia
4. England

• Women
1. Australia
2. India
3. England
4. New Zealand

Badminton Schedule

Venue: Siri Fort Sports Complex

Training Venues Badminton - 2

• Siri Fort Sports Complex - 6 courts

• Saket Sports Complex - 3 courts

Badminton is a core sport for men and women that made its debut in Kingston 1966 as one of nine included on the Commonwealth Games Programme in this year. Delhi 2010 will feature six events in this discipline – Singles and Doubles matches for men and women, Mixed Doubles and Team Mixed – to be held at the Siri Fort Sports Complex between 4 -14 October 2010.

Competition Format

Men	Singles – Four, Doubles – Two Pairs
Women	Singles – Four, Doubles – Two Pairs
Mixed	Doubles – Four Pairs

Team	1xMen’s Singles – 1xWomen’s Singles- 1xMen’s Doubles – 1xWomen’s Doubles - 1x Mixed Doubles

Competition Date

Mixed Team: 4-8 October 2010

Singles – Doubles – Mixed Doubles: 9 - 14 October 2010

Entry

Maximum entry per CGA: 5 men and 5 women

Entry to be received by OC CWG Delhi 2010

• By NUMBER – 3 April 2010

• By NAME – 3 September 2010

Venue at New Delhi

The 17 sports to feature in the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi will be held at six venue clusters and five stand alone venues in Delhi. Ceremonies, Athletics, Lawn Bowls and Weightlifting will be held at Cluster I: Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Complex; Cycling, Gymnastics and Wrestling at Cluster II: Indira Gandhi Sports Complex; Archery (Qualification Rounds) and Table Tennis at Cluster III: Yamuna Sports Complex; Badminton and Squash at Cluster IV: Siri Fort Sports Complex; Hockey and Archery Finals (India Gate) at Cluster V: MDC National Stadium Complex; and Swimming and Boxing at Cluster VI: Talkatora Garden Complex.

Twenty-six new training venues are being constructed for the Delhi 2010 for different sports. Work has been initiated on all the training venues and is progressing satisfactorily. Apart from this, 16 training venues are being upgraded and will be ready on schedule.

Shera steals the thunder in R-Day parade in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Shera, the mascot of the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi was the star attraction of the Republic Day Parade along Rajpath and the eight-kilometer long route on Tuesday.

A quiverful of sportspersons, including boxer Vijender Singh, wrestler Sushil Kumar, weightlifter K Malleshwari, athletes Milkha Singh and P T Usha, hockey Olympians Ajitpal Singh and Zafar Iqbal, shooter Samresh Jung, badminton player Gopichand Pullela and swimmer Khajan Singh were the star attractions of the parade.

The Commonwealth Games tableau was prepared by the best craftsmen sought by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The vibrant colour palette of the Games lent a spectacular look to the tableau.

The iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium’s spectacular structure and a globe aptly positioned in the middle of the stadium along with flags of 70 participating nations and territories showcased how the world will be celebrating the Games at a common platform.

The tableau emphasised various aspects of Green Games. It was made of all recycled eco-friendly material. The wood used in the structure is chip board and MDF Board which is again eco friendly recycled material. The grass & planters on the tableau are natural.

The LED screens on either sides of the tableau displayed a film combining major sporting events, their medal winners and the snapshots of the various games.

Not to be left behind the young, energetic and enterprising volunteers of the Games were there in their colourful track suits. These volunteers walked along the tableau showcasing Delhi United which is the slogan for the volunteers programme.

Queen’s Baton Relay 2010 Delhi can instill greater National pride: Kalmadi

Sport for All message must be conveyed in telling terms, says Mrs Khullar

NEW DELHI, 28 January 2010: The Queen’s Baton Relay 2010 Delhi, scheduled to be organised through India from June 25 to October 3 this year, is a wonderful opportunity to instill a greater sense of national pride and to promote Olympic sports, Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Chairman Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, MP, has said.

Addressing the Queen’s Baton Relay Domestic Leg State Nodal Officers Conference, Mr Kalmadi said Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi is a unique opportunity for India to showcase itself. “We will be able to showcase our cultural diversity, our lifestyle, our democracy, our secularism and everything else that makes up the strong structure of India,” he said.

The 20,000km relay, presented by Hero Honda, will also be a chance for all States to honour their sporting legends, Mr. Kalmadi said. “Please ensure that all international sportspersons – past and present – residing in your State are involved in the relay,” he said. “It will ensure a high visibility for Olympic sport. In fact, the relay is an opportunity to bring together all members of the community.”

Mr Kalmadi also called for total co-ordination between all stakeholders -- State Governments, State Olympic Associations, local defence forces officials, police and the Organising Committee – so that the Queen’s Baton Relay 2010 Delhi would be an exciting event and generate passion for Olympic sport in India.

Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Secretary Mrs..Sindhushree Khullar called upon the Nodal Officers to ensure that their States used the Queen’s Baton Relay 2010 Delhi as a platform to convey a larger message. “Sport is for All and the relay will test the reach and outreach of the Directorates of Sport and the State Olympic Assocations,” she said.

“You must make sure that the Queen’s Baton Relay 2010 Delhi touches the lives of millions of people,” Mrs. Khullar said. “Let it be the launching pad for the creation of a greater sense of sports consciousness in the country. Only then can we get to the levels of even Cuba which has 20,000 national level sportspersons – compared to the 5,000 that we now have.”

The Queen’s Baton 2010 Delhi is due to arrive in India from Pakistan at the Wagah border on June 25, 2010. It will then visit all 28 States and seven Union Territories before reaching Delhi on September 30, giving it three days in the State capital before the start of the Commonwealth Games on October 3.

The Queen’s Baton 2010 Delhi, which has travelled 50,000 km since the launch at Buckhingham Palace on October 29 and is now in Namibia as part of the last leg of its tour of Africa, will use different modes of transport – from defence aircraft to helicopters, from ships to camels, from parachutes to Hero Honda motorcycles – when it traverses the length and breadth of India, uniting the diverse people of India on a common platform.

Delhi Government ousts homeless for Games: UN expert

United Nations: An independent UN expert has expressed concern about the deaths of homeless people in New Delhi due to cold as the government has 'demolished' number of shelters due to the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

"The lives of hundreds of homeless people in India are at risk as temperatures near zero degrees," warned Raquel Rolnik, the Special Rapporteur on housing.

"Ten homeless persons have already died from cold in the last month in New Delhi.

In northern India, around a hundred homeless persons have reportedly died in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar due to the freezing cold that affected the region over the last few weeks," she added.

The Special Rapporteur underlined that while the homeless population in the capital has increased, the number of shelters "has recently been reduced from 46 to 24, in disregard of the Delhi Master Plan 2001 and the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act 1957."

In the last few months, Rolnik, noted that demolitions and evictions of homeless from places they used as shelters have been conducted by public authorities despite the cold weather.

Anil Khanna appointed new Treasurer for Commonwealth Games

Suresh Kalmadi, Chairman, Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, today announced the appointment of Anil Khanna, the Secretary General of the All India Tennis Association as the new Treasurer of the OC for the Games.

In a statement issued to the press earlier in the day, Mr. Kalmadi said, "It is with great reluctance and after consulting my senior colleagues I have decided to accept my colleague Mr. Ashok Kumar Mattoo's resignation as Treasurer of the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi.

"I wish I could have persuaded him to change his mind and not have to make this statement. We tried hard to convince Mr. Mattoo to stay on but he has made up his mind. We have to respect his sentiments and accept his wish to retire from sports administration.

"We will miss his valuable inputs as we head to the home stretch of our preparations to host the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. We will miss him in the offices of the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. We wish to place on record our appreciation of his meticulous work over a number of years.

"I am pleased to nominate Mr. Anil K. Khanna, the Secretary General, of All India Tennis Association as Treasurer of the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi." http://www.thesportscampus.com/

Willie Wood sets his sights on 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi

Others may be running scared of the Commonwealth Games but Willie Wood, 71 but "feeling 30 years younger", will be straining every sinew over the coming days, and - he hopes - weeks, at the World Indoor Championships in an effort to secure his place in the Scotland team for Delhi. If selected it will be his eighth Commonwealth Games and, extraordinarily, it should have been his 10th.

While the rest of the shivering country huddles around stoked fires for comfort, Wood will be strutting his stuff at the Potters Leisure centre at Hopton-on-Sea on the freezing Norfolk coast where the bowls clans have gathered for their annual get-together.http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

'Delhi belly' fears will keep best British gymnasts out of the 2010 Commonwealth Games

Bad timing and fear of illness will keep Great Britain's best gymnasts home from the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India, the British media is reporting. (Best headline of the bunch: "Delhi Belly forces British gymnasts to skip Commonwealth Games 10 months early," via The Telegraph.)

Too much is at stake during World Championship season for several athletes to risk flying to Delhi and getting "tummy bugs and diarrhea," British Gymnastics Performance Director Eddie van Hoof told the Daily Mail. Gymnastics events at the Commonwealth Games are scheduled for Oct. 4-8. The 2010 World Championships in Rotterdam, Holland begin Oct. 17.

NCC cadets to help smooth conduct of Commonwealth Games

Five thousand NCC Cadets are being trained for smooth conduct of the Commonwealth games 2010. Talking to reporters at the 61st anniversary of NCC formation, Lt. General R.K. Karwal said in New Delhi that infrastructural and financial support is required from the government to increase the number of cadets to an expected 15 lakh which is at present only 13 lakh of the country's total population.

AIR correspondent reports that like the Asian Games held in 1982, the cadets are expected to remain a passive force in the Commonwealth Games and support the authorities by managing traffic, disaster management control and other participatory activities.

Cost of 2014 Commonwealth Games rises by 81 million pounds

The budget for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is to be increased by 81 million pounds.

The organising committee for the games said funding for the event would rise to a total of 454 million pounds.

The bulk of the extra cash will come from the Scottish government. The city council will provide an additional nine million pounds.

The Scottish government will contribute an additional 39 million pounds, plus a further 20 million pounds from a reserve fund.

A total of 13 million pounds will be raised through commercial activities.

Glasgow 2014 Limited, said a number of factors including legislative changes, and in particular rising broadcasting costs, had contributed to the budget increase.

The Scottish government will continue to make the case for the recovery of 150 million pounds lottery funds diverted from Scotland to pay for the London Olympics. (ANI)

Funnel visits all venues of CommonWealth Games

New Delhi: The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) President Michael Funnel concluded his two-day tour of the capital with a visit to all venues amid mounting concerns of security and delay in construction of sports infrastructure.

Delhi is set to hold the next edition of the C'Wealth Games here from October 3 to 14, 2010, and though Funnel said he was satisfied on both fronts, he warned that there could be no laxity.

"I am satisfied at the way things have progressed over the past few months, but I don't think we can afford to have a slip up from here on in construction work," said Funnel, who made a tour of the venues on Friday after having used his first day here in interacting with top security officials and administrators.

"The work on the cycling velodrome and rugby stadium needs to pick up speed, as conceded by the local organisers, but I think things will be under control if the momentum is maintained," said Funnel, even as delay in construction work has led to postponement of some events that were to be held here this year to test the infrastructure.

As for the security set up, Funnel said he had conveyed his concerns to Indian administrators. "The security system seems to be in place generally and the Indian officials have made sufficient efforts. But security is always going to be a concern in the coming years, not just for the Commonwealth Games, but for other events too," said Funnel.

"There is not too much we can do about this but expect that the Indian government will do everything possible to ensure safety," he added.

Security has become a major concern after the November 26 attacks on Mumbai as well as the March 3 ambush on Sri Lankan cricketers in Lahore. The IPL was shifted to South Africa as the central government refused security cover because of the clash with national election dates, while Australia refused to play their Davis Cup tie in Chennai.

Commonwealth officials say concerned over delays to Delhi venues

New Delhi: The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is worried that a number of new venues for next year's multi-sports gathering in the Indian capital are falling behind schedule.

"We are concerned that some of the construction deadlines will not be met," CGF president Michael Funnel told CNN-IBN news channel on Friday following a meeting of the Games' coordination committee.

"But there is still time and if the new deadlines are met, that's fine," he added. Delays in construction have led to the cancellation of several international events that also serve as trail runs for venues being used at the October 2010 Games.

The Commonwealth shooting and boxing championships were postponed, while the world badminton championships were moved to the southern Indian city of Hyderabad.

Organizing chairman Suresh Kalmadi assured the committee that all venues, expect the velodrome and rugby sevens arena, would be completed by December.

"Many deadlines have been met and efforts are in hand to further enhance the efficiency in meeting laid down deadlines," Kalmadi said in a statement.

Commonwealth Games budget more than doubled to Rs.1,620 crore

NEW DELHI: The government Thursday more than doubled the 2010 Commonwealth Games budget to Rs.1,620 crore (Rs.16.2 billion / $344 million) from
Rs.767 crore.

The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here.

"The cabinet approved the proposal of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for providing a revised budget of Rs.1,620 crore, as loan to the Organising Committee (OC) of the Commonwealth Games, 2010, at the prevailing government rate of interest," Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni told reporters after the cabinet meeting.

Soni said the organising committee hoped that "against the approved revised estimates it is expected to generate a revenue of about Rs.1,708 crore".

Delhi is hosting the 19th Commonwealth Games from Oct 3 to 14, 2010, in 17 sporting disciplines. Competitions will also be held for Elite Athletes with Disability (EAD).

Soni said many factors have contributed to increase in the amounts proposed in the revised estimates.

"Sponsorship and TV rights, security, sustainability and environment, and ticketing" included in the revised proposal, were among the main factors raising the budget, the minister said.

"New items essential for the successful delivery of the games were not provided in the initial budget of the committee," she added.

"The components of rent for organising headquarters, technology which were practically nil in the initial budget, are now around Rs.175 crore and Rs.200 crore respectively. These have also contributed substantially to the (budget) increase."

Soni said the new proposal also includes the "change in the scope of the work and cost escalation in respect of accommodation, catering, opening and closing ceremonies, protocol, communications, image and look, technology, risk management-insurance and technical conduct of sports".

The Queen's Baton Relay (QBR) has also been revised and will now cover all 70 Commonwealth Games Association nations and territories in the international leg and all states in the national leg.

The number of days of the relay in its international leg will be raised to 240 days from 136 approved previously. In the domestic leg the number of days has been increased to 100 from 60.

"The number of volunteers has also gone up to nearly 30,000 and hence the cost of accreditation, catering, uniform, on this account has increased," Soni said.

Games preparation not to miss deadline: Kalmadi

NEW DELHI, Nov 6: Brushing aside concerns that 2010 Commonwealth Games preparation may miss deadline, Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi on Friday reiterated that Delhi would host a successful Games next year.

"Everyone can see the amount of work going on for the next year’s Commonwealth Games in the city. Delhi would be ready to host the Games with all the facilities completing on time," Kalmadi said.

The Organising Committee has faced criticism from different quarters for the tardy preparations of 2010 Games but Kalmadi said all the facilities required for the quadrennial mega event, including medical, will be ready on time.

"The medical facilities in the city are also being upgraded for the Commonwealth Games and the hospitals are also getting ready. With enough government support we are moving in right direction," Kalmadi said inaugurating an international congress on sports medicine here.

Emphasising the importance of scientific training and medical backup for international athletes, Kalmadi, who is also the Indian Olympic Association chief, said the country has started making strides towards that direction.

"Today the scientific approach and medical backup are very important factors for an athlete. India has also started taking steps to provide the same to the players," Kalmadi said.

"I would like to thank Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh) for giving Rs 700 crore for the facilities like training for athletes, recruitment of foreign coaches," Kalmadi added.

More than 600 sports medicine experts, including 70 from abroad, are participating in the three-day conference named Sports Medcon 2009.

"With the Commonwealth Games on the offing, this kind of initiative would help the cause as hosting the CWG involves a lot of dope and injury related aspects," said PSM Chandran, President of the Indian Federation of Sports Medicine (IFSM).

Among others, Sports Authority of India (SAI) director general Sayan Chatterjee, 2010 Games Technical Conduct Committee chairman KP Singh Deo and Delhi Health Minister Kiran Walia were also present on the occasion. (PTI)

Rs 1,620 crore for Commonwealth Games

NEW DELHI, Nov 5: Hit by delays and escalating cost of infrastructure, the 2010 Commonwealth Games received a massive budgetary boost on Thursday with the central government allocating Rs 1620 crore as loan to the organising committee of the event. “The Union Cabinet approved the proposal of Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for providing a revised budget of Rs 1620 crore, as loan to the organising committee Commonwealth Games 2010, at the prevailing government rate of interest, for organising the CWG at Delhi during October 3 to 14. Budget approved earlier was Rs 767 crore,” Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni told reporters after the cabinet meeting. Elaborating on the reasons for the budgetary hike, she said rising cost of opening and closing ceremonies, the increase in the number of days for Queen’s Baton Relay — from 136 to 240 days for international leg and from 60 to 100 days for domestic leg — were among the reasons that forced the increased allocation. “Inclusion of new items that are essential for the successful delivery of the Games but were not provided in the initial budget of the OC, namely accreditation, city operations, sponsorship and TV rights, security, sustainability and environment and ticketing,” she said. Cost escalation in respect of accommodation, catering, protocol and CGF relations, Queen's Baton Relay, rent for office of OC, communication, image and look technology, risk management, insurance and technical conduct of sports were also listed as reasons for budgetary hike. (PTI)

Mahindra to add 1,000 more holiday homes

New Delhi: Eying the growing domestic tourist sector, Mahindra Holidays and Resorts, a part of Mahindra group, said it will be adding 1,000 more holiday homes under its newly-launched Homestays brand.

"India is not a place to see but to experience. Homestays is a new concept which allows tourists to stay in Indian homes instead of hotels, allowing them to experience a little more of the 'real' India," company managing director Ramesh Ramanathan told reporters.

Under the scheme, tourists will stay with families in their homes in select locations, where they can get a peek into the cultural traditions, history and everyday life of the hosts and enjoy local home-cooked food.

The tariff starts from Rs.1,200 that includes taxes and breakfast, with the average rate being Rs.2,500.

At present, Mahindra Homestays has around 50 family properties in 10 states including Delhi, Rajasthan, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh.

The hotel brand was launched last July mainly targeting foreign tourists. But now the company is also looking at the middle class domestic tourists.

"Our target is to bring 120 Homestays units under our brand by the end of current year and 1,000 in the next five years," Ramnathan said, adding that 80 percent of the revenue earned would go to home owners.

"We have already signed agreements with the Kerala tourism department and are in talks with Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttarakhand and Delhi."

The company is also eying the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games and has roped in eight Homestays partner in the capital and adjoining areas, he added.

Source: economictimes

Delhi toes Beijing line, eco-friendly buses to ferry Games athletes

New Delhi: Taking inspiration from the Beijing Olympics held last year, the Delhi government, too, is keen to display its commitment towards the conservation of environment to the world. It plans to introduce ‘hybrid’ electric buses during the Commonwealth Games to be held in October 2010.

These hybrid buses will run on CNG and electric energy, and the government plans to station them at all 11 Games venues to transport athletes and spectators. It may also possibly give joyrides to inquisitive visitors.

While Delhi already has a huge base for a CNG-propelled public transport system and it has recently introduced subsidies on the cost of battery-operated cars and two-wheelers, Delhi Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta said these hybrid buses would be in addition to the eco-friendly transportation structure to be provided during the Games.

“Hybrid buses were a part of the system during Beijing Olympics. Delhi, too, has a green city agenda and the event (Commonwealth Games) could be used to extend our commitment to the cause,” he said.

Source: indianexpress

Vijender to be part of C’wealth baton launch in London

New Delhi, Oct 28: Olympic bronze medallist boxer Vijender Singh would be among India’s star players to attend the launch of the Queen’s Baton Relay for the Commonwealth Games 2010 on Thursday.

Queen Elizabeth, as head of the Commonwealth, will present the baton to Indian President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, indicating launch of the Commonwealth Games, at a ceremony at the Buckingham Palace on Thursday. Patil will be joined by a constellation of Indian players including Vijender Singh, 2008 Olympic gold medallist shooter Abhinav Bindra, Olympic bronze medallist wrestler Sushil Kumar, 1958 Commonwealth Games gold medallist athlete Milkha Singh, tennis player Sania Mirza and footballer Bhaichung Bhutia.

For Vijender October 29 would be a double whammy as the day would also mark his 24th birthday. “It will be good and it will be my first birthday celebration with the Queen. It will be a memorable one and let’s see what happens after we get there,” said Vijender. “It’s a very proud thing for us that we will dine with the Queen of England on October 29. In the opening ceremony of the baton we will be there with the President of India and it will be a proud moment for our Haryana also,” said Mahipal Singh, Vijender’s father who would accompany him. The 2010 Commonwealth Games will be India’s first major international sports event after the 1982 Asian Games. New Delhi hosted the inaugural Asian Games in 1951 and again in 1982. (Agencies)

Delhi ready to host 2010 CWG: Patil

London/New Delhi, Oct 27: President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, who is currently on a visit to the United Kingdom where she will official accept the baton to signal the launch of the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October 2010, has told the BBC that the Indian capital is fully geared to stage the mega sporting event.

“No. Delhi is quite prepared and they (the visitors) can come, they are most welcome and Delhi is very, very ready to welcome all those people who want to come here. No problem,” Patil said in an interview to BBC television.

Patil further went to state that her visit to London, the first by an Indian Head of State after nearly two decades, is aimed at strengthening the India-UK strategic partnership that was conceived in January 2004.

Describing the United Kingdom as India’s fifth largest global partner in trade, Patil said her country looks forward to more investment.

“Now, mutual trade has gone up to 12 billion pounds...The UK is also the fourth largest investor in India and India is the third largest investor in the UK, second largest so far as creation and securing jobs are concerned,” said Patil.

Accepting the fact that Britain is experiencing one of its longest periods of recession in history, Patil, however, said that inspite of this adverse situation, there was plenty of scope and opportunities in both countries to improve, and or, increase trade relations.

“We think that in spite of this adverse situation (economic slowdown), there are plenty of scope and opportunities in both countries to improve trading relationship,” she said.

On the issue of terrorism and the 26/11 attacks on Mumbai, Patil described it as a crime against humanity, and urged the international community to work together to counter such audacious attacks by terrorists.

On the issue of climate change, which likely to be addressed in greater detail during the Copenhagen Summit in December, Patil said the UK and other countries have the technological knowhow and skills to assist lesser developed countries counter the problem.

“India wants to have cooperation in that field and also financial assistance so that we can also take immediate action on that,” she said. “About eight missions have been set up for that (climate change). India is seriously looking into this, how to fight this. We are working on conservation of energy and new renewable sources. We look forward to having cooperation with the UK,” she added.

She also revealed that in the cuurent time of global recession, India was focussed on inclusive growth, with a special emphasis on improving standards of education and rural health. India, she said, was also for promoting the empowerment of women, and in this regard, the government has created a national mission for social and economic empowerment. (Agencies)

India approves Rs 370 crore security cover for Games

NEW DELHI, Oct 19: India on Monday approved state-of-the-art security for the 2010 Commonwealth Games at an estimated cost of Rs 370 crore - a move that also aims to set a benchmark for all big events in future. The decision, taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, approved the Hyderabad-based state-owned Electronics Corporation of India Limited for setting up the Integrated Security System (ISS) for the Games.

"In the interests of uniformity, compatibility and economies of scale and to ensure that a complete security solution is provided, ECIL has been tasked to provide the ISS," the statement said. "The indigenous capacity creation and capacity validation to provide ‘state-of-the-art’ security cover for large scale events will not only set new benchmarks but would be vital for the secure conduct of the Commonwealth Games 2010," it said.

"This is the first time in India that a project for installation of an ISS on such a large-scale is being implemented," a statement issued here said after the cabinet meeting. As per the "host city agreement", all venues associated with the Games are to be provided with specified facilities, including security.

During his recent visit to India, head of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) Michael Fennel, who raised concerns about India’s preparedness for the Games, also brought up the matter of adequate security arrangements for the event scheduled to begin on October 3.

ECIL, a wholly-owned Indian government enterprise established in 1967 to create a strong indigenous base in electronics, will deliver the security solution by March 31 next year. (IANS)

Games magic: Cabs with credit card machines, woman drivers

New Delhi, Oct 18: Limousine cabs, English-speaking drivers, credit card swipe machines in taxis – the Indian capital is pulling out all stops to offer a smooth ride around town as the 2010 Commonwealth Games approach. Not only are taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers being trained to be at their best behaviour during the Games to make Delhi a top tourist destination, but the fleet of taxis is about to go up as well. A fair sprinkling of woman taxi drivers will also be seen at the wheel. "In the run up to the Commonwealth Games, we will have cabs with credit card swipe machines for making card payments," Neeraj Sharma, managing director and CEO of Delhi Cabs, told IANS.

"The credit card service will be launched before the Games in October next year. We are also upgrading our cabs and increasing our fleet from the present strength of 500 in Delhi," Kumar said. "We are already training our drivers for soft skills, first aid and defence management." Another major player in the national capital, Mega Cabs, is also planning to increase its fleet before the Games. Mega Cabs vice president Vinod Mishra said: "We now have 225 cars and we are adding 300 cars in next three months. The number will go up to 1,000 cars by the time the Games begin. We are training our drivers to speak English." The Delhi government also plans to have 5,000 radio taxis and 11,000 brand new commuter-friendly buses in the next few months. Already several cab services have been operating in Delhi and national capital region (NCR) areas like Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad.

The capital will also see a number of women drivers during the Games. "We are training women drivers. Now we have 16 and the number should double in a few months. We are also training them in soft skills," said Meenu Vadhera, founder of Azad Foundation, which trains women drivers. The government has also launched a massive training programme for taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers who are undergoing a course at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in Gurgaon. The four-day training includes lessons in personal grooming, courtesy, hygiene, English-speaking skills, first aid and safety management. "We will be training 3,000 taxi and 4,000 auto-rickshaw drivers for the Games. Some 300 have already undergone training," G Anupama, HIPA additional director, told IANS. "We are also teaching them yoga and stress management and these will be useful to them lifelong," she said.

A tourism ministry official said: "The training is necessary for drivers as they would be the first people to come in contact with the visitors or tourists." "The impression the taxi drivers and auto-rickshaw drivers create on tourists would be a major factor in establishing Delhi as a top tourist destination," the official said. IANS

Commonwealth Games 2010 - Delhi's Death Trap

New Delhi: The Commonwealth Games 2010 are the biggest sports events to ever be held in the country. But the CNN-IBN special investigation team finds that the nation's pride could turn into an ecological embarrassment.

The 118 acre Commonwealth Games village is under construction on the floodplains of the Yamuna, in spite of warnings that the construction will endanger lives.

Activist, Yamuna Jiye Abhiyan, Manoj Mishra says, "Any construction, especially a multi-storey construction on the riverbed is an invitation to disaster. It is like a deathtrap."

The Yamuna has a history of flooding. It’s the floodplain that acts as a buffer and prevents flooding in populated areas. Construction there would also mean a reduction in groundwater levels, worsening Delhi's drinking water crisis.

Ecologist, MC Mehta informs, "The groundwater situation in Delhi is so critical that some of the blocks in Delhi have been declared as critical areas or dark spots. Saline water has also started coming in because there is no sweet water, so where is the water?"

Adding to that is the fact the Yamuna flood-plains also sit on a seismically active area. Manoj Mishra tells us, “There is a seismic map of Delhi. It's the river bed that sits on the fault line."

Experts say that suggestions for alternative sites such as the unused Safdarjung aerodrome or the already-standing Jasola Sports Complex have been ignored by the Delhi Government.

Hydrology expert, IIT Delhi, Prof AK Gosain says, "There are a lot of possible sites in and around Delhi. I don't think that the concerned authorities have really looked at any of those alternative proposals and sites. On the contrary, they have suggested that the most dangerous one on the floodplains of the Yamuna."

But Sheila Dixit rejects all criticism. She says, “Show me another city in the world, which has not developed its riverbanks. Development has to take place.”

The Commonwealth Games Federation now seems wary of Delhi Government's assurances.

CEO, Commonwealth Games Federation, Mike Hooper remarked, "We can only rely on the assurances that we are given. If those assurances subsequently proved to be inaccurate, they would be of concern."

Despite no approvals for constructing a games village on the site and with all the experts clearly pointing to how dangerous the construction can be, the government insists on continuing the construction work.

EC asks DG of CW Games Organising Comm to appear before it

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EC asks DG of CW Games Organising Comm to appear before it

New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI) The Election Commission today summoned the Director General of the Organising Committee of the Commonwealth Games to appear before it in connection with release of advertisements in violation of the model code of conduct.

The top official has been called along with the file in which the decision was taken to release the advertisement as also the Memorandum of the Association of the Organising Committee, Deputy Election Commissioner J P Prakash told reporters.

He said the Director General has been given time till April 30.

Three officials -- Shovana Narayan, Joint Director, Neel Chatterjee, Additional Director General and Bharat Prasad, Deputy Director of the Committee -- appeared before the EC today, he said.

The EC had earlier served a notice to them asking them why a sum of over Rs 26 lakh should not be recovered from them for releasing the advertisements.

To a question, Prakash said that the EC has given time till tomorrow to senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh to reply to its notice on violation of the model code of conduct by allegedly threatening to use the CBI against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati. PTI

Unveiling of the Queen’s Baton on the eve of Commonwealth Day

Comonwealth Games,March 08,2009


The countdown to the Commonwealth Games has begun. Organising Committee, Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010 will be unveiling the prototype of Queen’s Baton on the eve of Commonwealth Day, which is celebrated annually on the second Monday of March to signify the post-colonial relationship between the nations of the former British empire. The event will be held on the lawns of India Gate. The prototype of the Queen’s Baton will be unveiled by Lt. Governor of Delhi, Shri Tejendra Khanna. The Queen’s Baton has been specially designed in a manner which is unique since it represents not only the diversity of India but also the participation of every Indian through the soil of each state of India which has been embedded on the Baton. The Baton, represents the resilient spirit of Indians, and their Prowess, in the field of technology and IT which also finds place in the Baton as it is designed to contain,

GPS to track the Baton Movements when it travels

Video Camera with Sound Recorder

SMS Facility (affording instant interaction with the public)

LED lights that will illuminate the colour of the flag of each of the 71 Commonwealth Nations through which it travels through

Inbuilt Camera, Sound Recording Facility

And very importantly a Gold leaf which the Queen’s Message will be inscribed on with micro calligraphy.



In the Commonwealth Games, the Queen’s Baton carries the Queen’s Message. The Queen’s Baton will travel all the Commonwealth Nations. In India it will scale the length and breath of our Nation showcasing Indian Cultural Heritage amalgamating with Indian Sports. The Queen’s Baton will be officially launched by the Queen from Buckingham Palace in November 2009. The cultural extravaganza will be an unforgettable evening of visual delight which will include, a giant water screen, a show by the ‘Flying Angels’, performers of Toll Theatre from UK, delightful dances of celebration by leading Kathak and Bharatanatyam artistes and a contemporary dance troupe thrilling fusion of dance and gymnastic movements even as the LED screens bring alive the landmarks of Delhi and a fiesta of sound, movement and colour by over 200 artistes from all over the country. The pulsating finale accompanied by spectacular fireworks will also include numbers by eminent pop singers. The evening is a MUST SEE event celebrating the spirit of sports encompassing the spirit of the Games, the spirit of the Commonwealth, the spirit of the Queen’s Baton the catalyst for development of Delhi’s infrastructure and the spirit of the people of India!


Source: http://www.cwgdelhi2010.org/NewCWG/newscontent.aspx?newsid=N:140

Highest-level security plan in place for 2010 CWG: IOA

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New Delhi, Mar 23 (PTI) The Indian Olympic Association today said they were confident of staging a safe and smooth Commonwealth Games next year and the shifting of the IPL to a foreign venue would not reflect poorly on the hosting of the prestigious event in the capital city.

IOA General Secretary Randhir Singh said IPL's security issue arose because its dates clashed with the Lok Sabha elections in the country but there is nothing scheduled for 2010 when the Games are slated to be held.

Randhir said the IOA has in place "the highest-level of security plans".

"Indian Olympic Association is confident on security arrangements for the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. Security plans of the highest levels are in place to deliver a smooth and safe Games and Delhi Police is working closely with central intelligence agencies to ensure the same," he told PTI.

He, however, did not elaborate on the security plan.

Randhir, who is also a member of the International Olympic Committee, rebuffed the recent comments of Australian Commonwealth Games Association (ACGA) in which it attempted to draw attention of the sports world towards security issue during the Games in Delhi. PTI

2014 Commonwealth Games updates

Glasgow City Council wants to clear show people sites in the east end of the city to make way for regeneration for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Plans which could see some people moved to a site at Halfway have been drawn up by South Lanarkshire Council.

However, it said no decision had been made on the future of the site.

The former Dalton special needs school building is currently being demolished.

Local councillors confirmed that they had been briefed on a proposal, drawn up by council officials and regeneration agency Clyde Gateway, suggesting the Dalton site as a potential new home for those being displaced from the Dalmarnock Road site. source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/

Crunch hits Canterbury boxing

Coach Phil Shatford believed tough financial times and a lack of funding were behind host American Samoa pulling out of the proposed April tournament.

"This is the first time I can remember that there will be no Oceania boxing games," he said.

A Canterbury Boxing Association trial on March 14, for the Oceania games, has now been cancelled.

"It's a huge disappointment for the boxers, who have been training hard with this in mind," Shatford said. "It means our top New Zealand boxers are going to miss out on valuable international competition."

He said it was too late now for a substitute host to step in and take over the annual championship.

"No-one else has put their hand up and I'm guessing it's the money because things are very tight at the moment with sponsorship and costs," he said.

"Unfortunately our top guys like Yamiko Chinula, Nathan McEwen and Todd Commons won't get a trot for a while."

Shatford said interest had been shown from New Zealand in hosting the Oceania event next year in what was a Commonwealth Games year.

"It takes on much more importance in a Commonwealth Games or Olympic year, so there will be some urgency to run the tournament."

There was some hope of a North Island and South Island team being sent to the May 11-15 Arafura Games in Darwin.

"It's not as high class as the Oceania championships but it's still international competition, which is what a lot of these guys are after."

Canterbury boxers can step into the ring at the South Island novice championships at the Woolston Club on March 28. SOURCE: http://www.stuff.co.nz

Prasar Bharati staff oppose global tenders for Commonwealth Games

Indiantelevision.com Team

(24 February 2009 10:30 pm)


NEW DELHI: Even as the employees of Prasar Bharati decided to agitate against the decision of chief executive officer B S Lalli to go in for global tenders for coverage of the Commonwealth Games next year, some members of the Prasar Bharati Board feel this is being done as the broadcaster does not have the technology for High Definition Television that is needed in most recipient countries.

Two members of Parliament, Communist Party of India (Marxist) member Hannan Mollah and D Raja of the CPI, described the move as "nothing but an attempt to destroy the Public Service Broadcaster of the nation." Raja said that this was an attempt to hand over the Games coverage to private parties on contract basis.

Speaking at a gate meeting organized by the National Federation of Akashvani and Doordarshan Employees (NFADE), the leaders extended full support to the employees of the pubcaster.

While Lalli was not available for comment, some members of the Board who did not want to be named justified the decision as they said India did not have the technology. However, some of them expressed unhappiness at the fact that they had been informed about the decision to invite Expression of Interest (EOI) from private parties after it had been taken and they had not been consulted at the initial stage, which violated the spirit of the Prasar Bharati (Broadcasting Corporation of India) Act 1990.

Leaders of the NFADE claimed that Prasar Bharati employees had proved their ability to cover international events as far back as the Asian Games of 1982, and there was enough time for the pubcaster to get the necessary technology before the Commonwealth Games which are being held towards the end of next year. Instead of equipping Doordarshan with latest technical facilities to face the new challenges which will definitely enrich the professionalism, this is an attempt to pave the road for corruption which may benefit some senior officers of Prasar Bharati, they said.

The leaders of different staff associations/unions said that such attempt is nothing but meticulously planned mode of corruption to play with public money. The Federation leaders called upon the members to be prepared for a strong agitation to ensure the telecasting of the Commonwealth Games.

The leaders of NFADE said the employees of AIR & DD would boycott the transmission of coverage of the Commonwealth Game 2010 if the production and coverage is handed over to private parties and not to the professionals of Doordarshan. Such invitation of interest by Prasar Bharati through global tender will benefit the foreign media houses.

Scotland's Commonweath Games teams enjoy £125K cash boost

SCOTLAND'S bid for Commonwealth Games glory has been given a major boost aftersportscotland announced increased funding of £125,000 in Commonwealth Games Scotland for the coming year.

The investment - which is up from last year's £110,000 - will support the core activities of CGS, the body responsible for the selection and preparation of Scottish teams for the Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Youth Games.

Sportscotland chair Louise Martin said: "I am delighted to announce this investment in CGS, one of our key partners in delivering high performance sport in Scotland.

"We are just over two months out from the start of the selection period for the next Commonwealth Games in India, so this is a very exciting time for athletes with aspirations of representing Scotland in Delhi."

CGS chairman Michael Cavanagh added: "We have a strong working partnership with sportscotland.

"Their support for CGS, member sports and athletes, both directly and through the Institute network is critical to ensuring we are successful in Delhi and beyond." Glasgow Daily

Commonwealth meet postponed after construction delays

MUMBAI (Reuters) - Construction delays for the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi have caused the Commonwealth boxing championships to be put back until early next year, the Indian Boxing Federation (IABF) said on Thursday.

The event was originally scheduled to be held in December this year, but the IABF requested a postponement as the venue might not be ready in time.

"The Commonwealth boxing federation has agreed to our request to postpone the Commonwealth boxing championships," IABF secretary general P.K. Muralidharan Raja said in a statement.

"The IABF has now requested the International Boxing Association to allot a suitable date in February-March 2010."

Commonwealth Games organisers are under pressure because of delays in several projects for the games, which are scheduled to take place from Oct. 3-14 next year.

Construction delays also forced this year's world badminton championships to be moved to the southern city of Hyderabad.

OCM Confident Of India's Ability To Host 2010 Commonwealth Games

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) expressed confidence that India are capable of completing the infrastructure and facilities in time to host the 2010 Commonwealth Games scheduled from Oct 3-14.

OCM honorary secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi said what New Delhi is facing now was similar to what Malaysia had faced when hosting the 1998 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Kuala Lumpur.

"The world is facing an economic crisis now and India too maybe facing the impact. We faced a similar situation as there was an economic crisis in 1997 but we managed to host one of the best Commonwealth Games. Similarly, India will be able to do so with its vast resources and human resource," he told Bernama here today.

Bernama reported yesterday that an Indian parliamentary panel had disclosed that the Indian capital was ill-equipped in terms of facilities to host the Games.

Sitaram Yechury, standing committee chairman for transport, tourism and culture revealed that though countdown for the Games had begun, there seem inadequate infrastructure in all sectors such as roads, airport, accommodation, surface transport, entertainment, basic amnesties, parking, information centres, security, stadiums and supply of power.

Kok Chi said the Indian government were capable of hosting world class games as the country had successfully hosted the Asian Games twice in 1951 and 1982 and other major international sporting events.

India became the second Asian country to be awarded the host job after Malaysia became the first, by hosting the Games in 1998.

The Commonwealth Games, the second biggest sporting event in the world after the Olympics, would see 71 countries that were previously under British rule and British colonies, competing in 17 sports contested.

-- BERNAMA

India capable of holding 2010 Commonwealth games: Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur: The Olympic Council of Malaysia has exuded confidence that despite the economic downturn, India will be able to host one of the best Commonwealth games, as it has the experience to host world class events.

India is capable of completing the infrastructure and facilities in time to host the 2010 Commonwealth Games scheduled from October 3-14, a Malaysian official said.

OCM honorary secretary Sieh Kok Chi said what New Delhi was facing now was similar to what Malaysia had faced when it hostedthe 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur.

"The world is facing an economic crisis now and India too maybe facing the impact. We faced a similar situation as there was an economic crisis in 1997 but we managed to host one of the best Commonwealth Games," Kok Chi said.

India was capable of hosting world class games as it had successfully hosted the Asian Games twice in 1951 and 1982 and other major international sporting events, he said.

"Similarly, India will be able to do so with its vast resources and human resource," national news agency Bernama quoted him as saying on Thursday.

Bernama had reported yesterday that an Indian parliamentary panel had disclosed that New Delhi was ill-equipped in terms of facilities to host the Games.

India became the second Asian country to be awarded the host job after Malaysia which hosted the commonwealth games in 1998. PTI

India's lawmakers say no rooms for Games

2 days ago

NEW DELHI (AFP) — Only half the 30,000 extra hotel rooms needed for next year's New Delhi Commonwealth Games will be ready in time, a parliamentary panel report has claimed in the latest gloomy assessment.

The report, unveiled late Tuesday, criticised delays in building infrastructure and the lack of co-ordination between the various government agencies charged with the October 3-14, 2010 Games.

"The 2010 games are drawing near and so many projects are yet to be initiated, let alone being completed," said the report by the panel on transport and tourism headed by federal lawmaker Sitaram Yechury.

"There are a large number of civic and other agencies, but there is an absence of a co-ordinated mechanism."

Of the 39 hotel sites auctioned by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) ahead of the Games, only 19 had begun construction work, report said.

"The committee has serious doubts about the capability of DDA for expediting the issue of identification and allotment of hotel sites for construction of budget hotels for the Games," it said.

The panel predicted a shortfall of 14,000 hotel rooms, but federal tourism minister Ambika Soni rubbished suggestions the Games will be affected.

"Our scheme to develop bed and breakfast units throughout New Delhi is working very well," the minister told reporters on Wednesday.

The Delhi government has urged residents to convert a part of their property into bed and breakfast units that will be regulated by the state authorities.

The Hindustan Times newspaper said last week that New Delhi was so behind schedule that it will take a "miracle" to host the Games.

"What we face is a race against time," the paper had said, adding that Games venues were only 40 percent complete.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has raised concern over the slow pace of work, which has already forced the world badminton championships in August this year to be shifted to Hyderabad.

On Wednesday, organisers of this year's separate Commonwealth boxing championships sought a postponement from October to next March due to the incomplete indoor stadium in New Delhi.

However, Indian Olympic Association secretary-general Randhir Singh played down fears that the Games will be held in half-complete stadia.

"Most of the venues will be handed to us by the end of this year and the rest by next March," Singh told AFP.

"We will have enough time to organise test events."

The hockey World Cup is scheduled to be held in New Delhi in March next year.

New Delhi is the second Asian city to be awarded the Commonwealth Games after Kuala Lumpur hosted the 1998 edition. New Delhi has hosted the Asian Games twice, in 1951 and 1982.

Commonwealth Games Organising Committee

The Organising Committee (OC) Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010 came into being on February 10, 2005, as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act 1860. It was resolved by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) in the General Assembly held in Jamaica on November 13, 2003 to entrust the organising and hosting of the XIX Commonwealth Games to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). As per Clause 2(C) of the Host City Contract, signed by the Government of India, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, IOA, and CGF, IOC has delegated the organisation of the Games to the OC.

The OC has set itself the goal of conducting the best Commonwealth Games to date, including the provision of impeccable standards of service to athletes, officials and the general public, in close collaboration with its partners. It hopes to set new benchmarks for other Host nations with regards to urban sustainable development by showcasing excellent infrastructure and facilities which could be used by the society and the general public for generations to come

Commonwealth Games Bed and Breakfast

Hosting the Commonwealth Games 2010 is a matter of pride for the city of Delhi, and an opportunity to showcase traditional Indian hospitality. If you have rooms to spare ad the desire to play host to our visitors during the Games, you can become a proactive participant in making Delhi and India proud.

The Delhi Government has initiated a Bed & Breakfast Scheme, which allows you, as a citizen of Delhi, to lodge tourist coming from abroad and other parts of the country as paying guests within a regulated framework. You will, of course, gain from the fee charged to the guests. If you have suitable space and facilities to host guests, and want an additional source of income, you can make use of this opportunity. For more information, log onto:
http://delhitourism.nic.in/publicpage/bb.html

Commonwealth Games Business Partners

Business Partners

Delhi 2010 is committed to staging the best ever Commonwealth Games. Apart from being a prestigious sports event, the Games will provide a global platform to showcase the economic, cultural, social and technical powerhouse that is modern day India.

The Games will inspire a generation of young people and provide lasting legacies of national infrastructure, economic benefits, national pride and grass roots sports participation.

The Organising Committee is looking for business partners in the following areas to achieve its goals of holding a successful Commonwealth Games.

Sponsors

Through participation in the Games as a sponsor, the corporates can access an outstanding marketing opportunity with the largest and most significant sporting and community event ever to be staged in the country. Your association with this event will provide not only a brand leadership position but an opportunity to win the hearts and minds of the community at large.

The Games can be used to support the achievement of a range of corporate, sales and marketing objectives. The sponsorship team for Delhi 2010 would be pleased to discuss with you a tailor made proposal to meet your individual corporate needs.

For more information, contact sponsorship@cwgdelhi2010.org

Broadcasting Rights

Organising Committee is appointing Prasar Bharati as the Host Broadcaster for Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010. The International Broadcasting Centre (IBC) will be of international standard and will cater to the needs of the Rights Holder Broadcasters.

International Broadcasting Rights

With the help of our International Broadcast Rights sales and strategy consultant, we have already contracted for Broadcasting Rights with major television channels for some international territories with high sports viewership ratings. Interested international channels could contact revenue@cwgdelhi2010.org for details on the sale of the International Broadcasting Rights of CWG D2010 Games.

Domestic Rights

TV Rights: The exclusive rights in India to televise on free to air television will be granted to Prasar Bharti.

New Media Rights: These rights would include existing New Media and new technologies including Internet, Mobile, Digital Video Broadcasting – Handheld (DVB-H), etc. Interested organisations could contact revenue@cwgdelhi2010.org for details on the sale of New Media Rights of CWG D2010 Games.

Commonwealth Games Volunteer Program

It is a chance of a lifetime after 20 years: the chance to make a difference, the chance to see the world at your own doorstep, the chance to join the team of Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010 volunteers. As Delhi prepares to roll out the red carpet to the world, no job will be too small. Every job and every contribution will matter.


Volunteers are often known as the ‘Face’ of the Games and the ‘Building Blocks’ of the Organising Committee, for, without their selfless, ‘we can do it’ attitude, it would be difficult to conduct a successful event of this magnitude. Stability and strength come from the blocks when they are placed symmetrically – side by side, one on top of the other . . . . with each and every person contributing to the success of the Games.


By becoming a volunteer, you could be part of a team of 20,000 who will welcome the world to India. We’re looking for a team that shares our values of sportsmanship, integrity, excellence, solidarity, diversity, competence, transparency, discipline and fairness.
The Volunteer Programme will be formally launched in early 2009. If you are interested in being a part of the 20,000-strong volunteer team, watch this space for more details and updates.

Commonwealth Games Tradition

The Queen`s Baton Relay is one of the great traditions of the Commonwealth Games, having been the curtain-raiser to every games since Cardiff, Wales, in 1958. The relay symbolises the gathering of people from across the Commonwealth at the four-yearly festival of sport and culture.

The Queen`s Baton Relay is one of the great traditions of the Commonwealth Games, having been the curtain-raiser to every games since Cardiff, Wales, in 1958. The relay symbolises the gathering of people from across the Commonwealth at the four-yearly festival of sport and culture.

The relay traditionally begins with a commencement ceremony at Buckingham Palace, London, which coincides with the city`s Commonwealth Day festivities. There Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II entrusts the baton containing Her `message to the athletes` to the first honorary relay runner.

The relay traditionally begins with a commencement ceremony at Buckingham Palace, London, which coincides with the city`s Commonwealth Day festivities. There Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II entrusts the baton containing Her `message to the athletes` to the first honorary relay runner.

The relay concludes at the Opening Ceremony, as the final relay runner hands the baton back to Her Majesty, or Her representative, and the message is read aloud. At that moment the relay ends and the Games begin.

Over the years, the Queen`s Baton Relay has evolved into a powerful symbol of the unity and diversity of the Commonwealth of Nations. With each Games, the tradition grows in scale and significance – including more nations, involving more participants and generating more excitement than ever before.

The Kuala Lumpur 1998 Queen`s Baton Relay was the first to deliver the relay to other nations of the Commonwealth, besides England and the host country. The Manchester 2002 Queen`s Jubilee Baton travelled more than 100,000 kilometres in 87 days, and visited 23 Commonwealth nations.

The Melbourne 2006 Queen`s Baton travelled an epic journey of more than 180,000 kilometres in a year and a day, and visited all 71 nations of the Commonwealth – home to almost one third of the world`s population.

The Melbourne 2006 Queen`s Baton Relay was the world`s longest, most inclusive relay. No other Games relay has visited all member nations.

More than 60 percent of Commonwealth nations hosted their first Queen`s Baton Relay, including the tiny island nations of Saint Helena off the coast of Africa and Niue in the South Pacific.