Fair Recreational Activity and Non-Competitive Involvement in Sports Urban Connect Scheme (F.R.A.N.C.I.S Urban Connect Scheme)

Fair Recreational Activity and Non-Competitive Involvement in Sports Urban Connect Scheme (F.R.A.N.C.I.S Urban Connect Scheme)

The Fair Recreational Activity and Non-Competitive Involvement in Sports Urban Connect Scheme, commonly known as F.R.A.N.C.I.S Urban Connect Scheme, is an initiative launched by the Government of Goa. This scheme aims to foster a healthier urban environment by creating safe recreational spaces for sports and leisure activities within urban communities.

Overview of the Scheme

Initiated in 2013, the F.R.A.N.C.I.S Urban Connect Scheme comes under the purview of the Department of Urban Development in Goa. The primary objective of this initiative is to establish safe play areas, thereby promoting healthy recreational activities among urban residents. It provides essential support for the development of these spaces, targeting local municipal bodies, educational institutions such as schools and colleges, registered sports clubs, and housing societies. The Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA) serves as the implementing agency, working in alignment with the Integrated Development of Major Towns Scheme (IDMT).

Key Benefits

• Creation of secure play areas that encourage healthy recreation and sports activities.
• Provision of various sports facilities including:
• Walking tracks
• Volleyball courts
• Basketball courts
• Athletics tracks
• Football fields
• Hockey fields
• Artificial rock climbing walls
• Tennis courts
• Inclusion of additional amenities like changing rooms, toilet blocks, storage spaces, proper illumination, and mild steel fencing.
• Financial assistance of up to ₹3,00,00,000 for A-Class Municipal Councils/Corporations, ₹2,50,00,000 for B-Class Municipal Councils, and ₹1,00,00,000 for C-Class Municipal Councils.
• Promotion of corporate sponsorships and public-private partnerships (PPP) to ensure the sustainability of these facilities.
• Provision of free access to non-formal facilities and affordable pay-and-play schemes.
• Opportunities for coaching and connections with local sports associations.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for assistance under the F.R.A.N.C.I.S Urban Connect Scheme, the following entities must possess land measuring no less than 2,000 square meters within the municipal jurisdiction:

• Local Municipal bodies
• Schools, colleges, or similar institutions
• Registered Sports Clubs
• Registered Housing Societies
• Other registered organizations that promote physical fitness and sports

Applicants whose land lies within the jurisdiction of adjacent Panchayats may also be considered for eligibility.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

1. Application Submission: Complete the Application Form (Annexure 1) with necessary details including proposed facilities, justification, and a business plan. Submit the application to the Nodal Agency (Goa State Urban Development Agency) along with all required documents.
2. Scrutiny and Approval: The Director of the Department of Urban Development will form a scrutiny committee to evaluate the application. The committee will then recommend the case to the Nodal Officer, who, in consultation with the Nodal Agency Chairman, will grant approval for benefits under the scheme.
3. Signing of M.O.U: After approval, the beneficiary is required to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (M.O.U.) with the Nodal Agency, detailing the terms and conditions for facility development and maintenance.
4. Implementation and Monitoring: The Nodal Agency will prepare a feasibility report, design the facilities, oversee construction, and subsequently transfer them to the beneficiary. The beneficiary will be tasked with the ongoing maintenance and operation of the facilities, while the Nodal Agency will conduct periodic community impact assessments.

Official Source

For further information, visit the official page at myScheme.gov.in.