Vibrant Start to AP Legislators’ Sports Meet–2026

The MLA and MLC Sports Meet–2026 , organised by the Andhra Pradesh Legislature, began on an energetic note at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium in Vijayawada.

Assembly Speaker Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu and Legislative Council Chairman Koyye Moshen Raju inaugurated the three-day event by lighting the ceremonial lamp and unveiling the official flags.

Speaking on the occasion, the Speaker said the event was meant purely for sports and fellowship, free from political overtones. He noted that such activities offer much-needed relaxation to legislators who are constantly engaged in governance and public issues.

Tracing the origins of the initiative, he recalled that the tradition of organising sports competitions for public representatives was introduced in 1983 by former Chief Minister N. T. Rama Rao . With nearly 78 percent of the current Assembly comprising young members, this year’s edition is expected to witness spirited participation, he added.

Sharing a personal memory, Ayyanna Patrudu said his early involvement in volleyball once caught the attention of NTR, who later encouraged him to enter politics.

He further stated that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has suggested that members attend the valedictory ceremony with their families. Cultural programmes and prize distribution will mark the concluding day.

Council Chairman Moshen Raju welcomed the continuation of the sporting tradition, stating that such events help ease work-related stress and foster cordial relations among members across party lines. He also underlined the importance of promoting sports at the grassroots and school levels.

AP Sports Authority (SAAP) Chairman Animini Ravi Naidu said the event is being organised on a larger scale this year, with arrangements overseen by an eight-member committee. He added that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of developing Andhra Pradesh into a major sports destination under the guidance of Minister Nara Lokesh .

Several legislators and officials were present at the inauguration ceremony.