3 per cent quota for sportspersons in government jobs

Addressing a function organised to honour him for giving reservation for sportsmen at the Nehru Indoor Stadium here, Palaniswami said, “Earlier, the Minister concerned Balakrishna Reddy demanded me to give importance to sports by giving employment to sportspersons, following which his demands were met. Already, 2 per cent reservation in employment for sportspersons exist. I am happy to inform that it has been increased to 3 per cent.” 

It was during his Independence Day address two months ago, when the Chief Minister announced 2 per cent sub-quota in employment for sportspersons. 

Stating that education and sports are both important for youngsters, Palaniswami said, “Education will develop the knowledge of a person. Similarly, sports will develop the body and mental stability. Students should understand that fact and focus on both aspects in equal measure.”

Palaniswami said that youth should stop playing games in computers and mobile phones and instead focus on some sort of physical activity. Sports will pave way for good friendship and unity among people, he stressed.

The Chief Minister further said that everyone participating in sports events should follow a set of rules to achieve their goal. “SMART should be the code word for achievers. It means specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound,” he said.

Reminding sportspersons of their role in the society, Palaniswami said, “You are the ones to guide the country in future. You must stop using plastic. People will learn from you and follow your footsteps.” 

Earlier in the day, Palaniswami briefly played basketball. Karate expert Shihan Hussaini exhibited his skills in archery which was appreciated by Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, who also participated in the function along with a host of ministers.