G.V. Raja Stadium Set for Major Revamp

The historic G.V. Raja Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is set for a major transformation. Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi has announced a ₹100-crore allocation for the redevelopment of the stadium. The proposed project aims to upgrade the facility to international standards and create a modern athletics and sporting venue capable of supporting high-level competitions. The development comes amid India’s preparations for stronger sporting infrastructure as the country pursues its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. India formally submitted its Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee in October 2024, and the bid is currently in the IOC’s continuous-dialogue phase.

Suresh Gopi, along with University of Kerala Vice-Chancellor Dr Mohanan Kunnummal and Syndicate Finance Committee member R.S. Sashikumar, inspected the stadium and discussed the proposed redevelopment. The University of Kerala is expected to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and master plan for the project. The stadium, established in the erstwhile Travancore region in 1937 and named after Colonel G.V. Raja, has historical significance in Kerala’s sporting landscape. The proposed revamp is expected to restore its infrastructure and provide athletes with better facilities. The wider push for sports infrastructure in Kerala also includes programmes linked to the state’s Vision 2036 initiative.