Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, July 4, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin today said the government is implementing a long-term plan to develop the country's sports sector and establish sports as a respectable profession.

Speaking as the chief guest at the opening match of the 24th Mass Uprising Sports Festival-2026 football tournament at the Chattogram District Stadium, he said the government's goal is to promote sports not only as entertainment but also as a viable career.

Mir Helal said a sports card has already been introduced to encourage young people to pursue careers in sports. He added that programmes such as New Bud Sports are being implemented to identify and nurture talented athletes from the grassroots, helping revive the country's sports sector.

He said sports play a vital role in keeping young people away from drugs, terrorism and other social ills. To support this, the government is giving priority to improving sports facilities, infrastructure and athlete development.

Haji Mohammad Salauddin, member secretary of the Chattogram District Sports Association (CJKS) ad hoc committee, attended the event as a special guest. The programme was chaired by Abul Hashem Bakkar, convener of the 24th Mass Uprising Sports Festival-2026.

In the opening match, Chattogram City Corporation XI defeated Chattogram Port Sports Association (White) 1-0.