KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Thursday inaugurated the ‘National High Performance Center’ built by the National Sports Council (NSC) at the international sports complex in Satdobato, Lalitpur.

During the ceremony, he issued a stern warning against politicizing the sports sector, specifically addressing Sports Minister Tejulal Chaudhary amid ongoing disputes related to the Nepal Premier League (NPL).

“Political parties come into government, but once in office, the focus must be on developing their respective sectors — agriculture, industry, or sports. There is no space for politics in sports,” Oli stated firmly.

He urged that the NPL be organized as a matter of national pride and expanded nationwide, similar to cricket’s growing popularity. He also reassured cricket supporters about plans to expand and modernize the Kirtipur Cricket Ground in a second phase.

Expressing concern over the postponement of the National Games in Surkhet, Karnali Province, Oli warned officials not to delay the event further and directed authorities to ensure it is held on schedule.

The newly inaugurated ‘National High Performance Center’ can accommodate over 100 athletes simultaneously and is equipped with 31 advanced sports science instruments imported from countries including the USA, UK, Germany, and South Korea.

Key equipment includes X-body machines, Force Frame, Force Desk, SVT machines, EMG equipment, Lactate Analyzer, BFR equipment, Dynamo equipment, Human Track equipment, VO2 Max analyzer, and Timing Gate.

This modern facility will enable Nepalese athletes to train at international standards, while Oli’s message clearly emphasizes prioritizing development over politics in the sports sector.