Malleshwari plans to set
up academies in AP, Haryana

Olympic bronze medallist Karnam Malleshwari said she is planning to set up a sports academy in her native state Andhra Pradesh and Haryana, where she now resides, since both governments have offered her land for the purpose.

"I want to utilise best the reward money which is pouring in from all corners of the country, after securing a bronze medal in the Sydney Olympics, for a full fledged academy for the betterment of sports," Malleshwari told newsmen in Nagpur on Friday.

Malleshwari was earlier accorded a grand reception on her arrival in Nagpur. School children lined up on the main street from the airport to the state guest house 'Ravi Bhawan'.

Continuing her tirade against her coach Sandhu, Malleshwari accused him of deceiving her. "He started neglecting me and that led to engaging a Bulgarian personal coach for my training," she revealed.

To a query, Malleshwari said she had announced in Sydney that she would retire after returning to India as she was emotionally upset and under tremendous tension.

"The overall government support to improve sports facilities in the country has increased during the last three-four years," she said, adding "but the onus lies on parents for encouraging their children to opt for sports and games."

To another question, she replied: "I have no plans to enter politics."