KETHANAKONDA (Krishna dist.): This nondescript village, 30 km from Vijayawada, is witnessing a silent revolution of producing a stronger and fitter India. Thanks to the commitment of Chalasani Balaramaiah, 58, known as CBR Prasad in the industrial sector, a state-of-the-art multi-purpose sports academy and a sports school are coming up on a 50-acre site.

Mr. Prasad nurtures the dream of producing an Olympian from the academy in the next 20 years.

What was a vast expanse of barren land three years ago has already undergone a sea change with Mr. Prasad setting up fruit and vegetable gardens using organic farming methods.

Nature fresh

"The fruits and vegetables that the sportspersons consume here are free from any synthetic fertilisers and pesticides.

Even the milk is bereft of any chemicals, as we avoid any livestock feed additives," points out Mr. Prasad. "I believe healthy diet is the primary requisite for shaping up a quality sportsperson," he adds.

The 40-odd buffaloes at the farm produce around 140 litres of milk every day, which is used for the consumption of weightlifters and academy staff.

Gymnasium

"Soon, we're planning a swimming pool of international standards and a 400-metre athletic track along with a gymnastic hall. We would like to grow in a steady manner," he discloses.

Mr. Prasad is also launching CBR Sports School from this academic year, where he would be honing about 200 select children with aptitude and attitude to make it big in sports.

"The school is for students from Class VI to Class IX. We're keen on offering the best of facilities to students towards achieving their ultimate goal.

The selection process will start on April 27," he points out.

Thought-sharing

Mr. Prasad is also soliciting the services of retired people to inspire children by sharing their thoughts on Indian culture and heritage. The frail-looking die-hard sports buff believes that one man can make the difference in the manner he is doing.

A proof of it is available in the steady growth of weightlifting academy, which was started with just five girls in 2003. It now has 21 members, with several lifters already hogging limelight in state and national level competitions.

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