Lucknow: UP will showcase its sporting talent, new sports infrastructure and use of technology in sports at the five-day UP International Trade Show 4.0, at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida, from Sep 25 to 29. Sports department is setting up a pavilion at the event for the first time.A 200-square-metre sports pavilion will feature directorate of sports, youth welfare department and sports colleges and university being developed in Meerut.Achievements of national and international athletes from the state will be highlighted with photographs, video bytes, television panels and digital displays. Three-dimensional models of major sports projects in Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, Varanasi and Kanpur will also be displayed.A documentary on state’s sports infrastructure will be screened, while a separate gallery will showcase activities of Yuvak Mangal Dals and Mahila Mangal Dals, including certificates, awards and medals presented by the chief minister.There will be an interactive gaming zone featuring football, hockey and table tennis and short games, with rewards.The department will connect younger visitors with sports and promote fitness, discipline and healthy lifestyles.Potential use of AI in sports, athlete support and digital management of sporting talent databases will be displayed.Sports department special secretary Vineet Kumar said sports colleges are nurseries for talent, helping athletes reach national and international levels.He said the state was expanding support for athletes through sports schools, hostels, Centres of Excellence and the proposed sports university, besides advanced equipment and facilities at stadiums and support in collaboration with Sports Authority of India.
