Could Lucknow be hosting the Olympics soon? It may be news to the International Olympic Committee, not to mention the Indian Government, but officials of the Uttar Pradesh Sports Department have other ideas. They are all set to go to Athens to ‘‘study what preparations are needed to hold such a mega event’’.The Sports Department and its minister, R K Chaudhary are quite clear the one-week trip is justified and will help ‘‘improve the sports culture in the state’’.Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav’s approval is still awaited but a three-member team of senior department officers, including an officer-bearer of the UP Olympics Association, are scheduled to leave for the Greek city on August 22.‘‘The file regarding the Athens trip, to understand how such events are planned, has been sent to the CM and we are awaiting approval,’’ says Chaudhary.It is another matter that the only major event that Uttar Pradesh hosted recently was the Saifai Mahotsava, held in the native village of Mulayam in Etawah district. It was a one-week affair involving several events, ranging from cultural shows to exhibition of agricultural equipment and yes, some wrestling matches. ‘‘Do not think negative,’’ appeals Chaudhary. ‘‘Our officers will learn a lot after their visit to Athens and their experience will help us improve the sports culture in the state.’’The officers who are likely to visit Athens include Secretary (Sports) B M Meena, Director (Sports) Shahabuddin and General Secretary, UP Olympics Association, Anandeshwar Pandey .‘‘When ministers can go abroad on different tours, why not people like me, when we are going for a saner purpose?’’ defends Pandey.
