Ramadoss expresses concern over cricket craziness among youth

CHENNAI: Expressing concern over the 'cricket frenzy' prevailing among youth in the country, PMK founder S Ramadoss on Monday called for promotion of other disciplines of sports to prevent youth activity 'deteriorating into a monoculture called cricket'.

Stating that cricket was not an Indian game, the PMK chief said he was against both cricket and 'cricket craziness' prevailing in the country.

"But, there is no one in Tamil Nadu to support me in my campaign against the game," he regretted.

Unveiling his party's policy for youth development titled 'Rejuvenating Tamil Nadu's Youth-An Approach,' Ramadoss said the situation in the state today was very pathetic as the youth, due to lack of proper guidance, were propitiating film actors and cricket players.

They had no interest in Tamil language, literature and the state's rich culture and tradition and were falling prey to drugs, tobacco and alcoholism, he added.

Poor quality of education, restricted employment opportunities, entrepreneurship obstacles and poor standards of sports achievement were the root causes for waywardness of youth and degeneration of culture, he said and called for quality education and employment opportunities for youth.

Entrepreneurship among youth should be encouraged and sports should be made a part of education and culture, he added.