I am an ‘accidental plant’ in sports ministry: Gill

Union Sports Minister M S Gill on Friday described himself as an 'accidental plant' in the ministry and revealed that nobody wants to take charge of the portfolio.

Union Sports Minister M S Gill on Friday described himself as an ‘accidental plant’ in the ministry and revealed that nobody wants to take charge of the portfolio.

After inaugurating a swimming pool complex at the SAI Eastern India Centre,he said: Most ministers don’t want to take up the sports ministry. That’s the case in Delhi.

I am an accidental plant here,though I have engaged in sports and have an interest in all sports activities. I have followed everything right from cricket to football to athletics with utmost interest.

I also keep a track of the things that are in news. I will do my best to develop the sports in India, he said.

Asked about the progress of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi,Gill announced that a coordination committee will be formed to review the preparation for the quadrennial extravaganza.

Stressing the need for revival of hockey in the country,he said: Hockey is very close to our heart. Now it’s looked after by a committee headed by the Indian Olympic Association …We must push it forward.”