CHANDIGARH, April 8: Despite touting its support for student-athletes through scholarships and awards, the UT Administration has refused to cover full airfare for the under-19 boys and girls football teams traveling to Manipur for the SGFI National School Games from April 15 to 21.
With the tournament set to be held in Imphal, the Education Department cited safety concerns and opted against train travel amid ongoing tensions in the state. However, the department has shifted the financial burden of air travel—partially—onto the parents.
“Some parents requested their children be sent by air given the situation. They asked if we could adjust the equivalent train fare, and they would pay the difference,” said Harsuhinder Pal Singh Brar, Director, School Education (DSE).
He said he was open to helping. “Yes, it’s my and the department’s responsibility to ensure rail tickets are booked. If the parents consent, I’m happy to book the journey both ways by train.”
Parents, however, claimed they had already been asked twice to deposit the partial airfare amount and were still awaiting confirmation of return tickets. “We are left with no choice. It’s about our children’s future,” said one parent, who deposited the money despite financial constraints.
According to sources, while the department initially refused train travel over safety issues, it later said it was the parents who had objected. Some parents who couldn’t afford the fare gave undertakings agreeing to pay later.
The local contingent includes 36 players and four officials. Despite uncertainty over return travel arrangements, the teams have confirmed their participation through the official portal.
Brar insisted that the train fare is being reimbursed and added: “I’m trying to walk the extra mile and accommodate those who want air travel.”
