Aminul shrugs off Singapore loss, unveils nationwide sports drive

Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque on Wednesday urged calm, perspective, and progress over panic following Bangladesh’s defeat to Singapore, which failed to dent the government’s long-term sporting ambition.

Speaking after inspecting Sylhet District Stadium, the former footballer insisted that wins and losses are part of sport and must be used as fuel, not frustration.

“Defeat should not discourage us,” he said firmly. “We learn from the past and move forward with confidence.”

The State Minister underlined the government’s core philosophy, “Sports as a profession, security for the family” — vowing equal focus on football, cricket, kabaddi, basketball, archery, shooting, and other disciplines.

He announced the launch of the nationwide “Notunkuri (New Bud) Sports” programme on 30 April, subject to schedule, with the Prime Minister Tarique Rahman expected to inaugurate the initiative simultaneously across all 64 districts.

The programme will target boys and girls aged 12 to 14, featuring seven events in its first phase, from grassroots level through divisional competition to the national stage.

Talented athletes identified through the system will receive government sports scholarships, the former goalkeeper confirmed.

He also revealed that sports will become mandatory from Class Four in the upcoming academic year, covering seven selected disciplines.

Aminul did not shy away from criticism, blaming years of corruption under previous administrations for the “deplorable” condition of Sylhet District Stadium.

Renovation instructions have already been issued, he said, calling on local authorities to act swiftly.

The State Minister added that 129 national athletes have already been brought under a new allowance roster, with around 500 more set to be included within a week.

“Our goal,” he declared, “is a healthy, sports-loving and drug-free nation.”