The Nagapattinam district administration is gearing up to start sailing training for children from fishermen families inside Nagapattinam port. The launch is expected ahead of Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's visit on December 20. He will attend the birth centenary of lyricist and singer Nagore E.M. Hanifa in Nagore. District Collector P. Akash leads this move to strengthen sports in the district. A warehouse at the port is being renovated into a training centre. Beginners will have sessions in the calmer harbour waters. Captain Vivek Shanbhag, honorary secretary of the Royal Madras Yacht Club (RMYC), said, "Sailing was an eco-friendly sport and coastal districts had strong potential to produce competitive talent if children were introduced early." Founded in 1911 and based in Chennai, the RMYC plans to support this centre by sending a coach and building local skills. Mr. Shanbhag said, "We plan to identify and train about four local people, procure basic craft including a motor boat, a rescue boat, and ensure the handholding is done on the ground. This can open up job avenues." Weekly demo and training sessions will start with a small fleet while safety gear like rescue boats is arranged. He added, "There are only about seven or eight sailing clubs. Going to nationals is comparatively easier because participation is lower. Children from fishing communities are naturally comfortable with the water, but their representation in competitive sailing is close to zero." Mr. Shanbhag stressed the need to end the idea that sailing is an elite sport. "Sailing is still seen as an upper middle class sport but that perception must change," he said. On weather concerns, he said, "We play cricket under the midday sun — so climate in Nagapattinam need not be a factor to hold children back." Alongside, water sports are planned at Velankanni beach. Activities like boat rides, kayaking, banana rides, jet ski, and wind surfing are proposed. M. Maria Roger Fernando, owner of Holy Island Water Sports, signed an MoU with Velankanni municipality and district officials. He said, "We will initially appoint five to seven fisherfolk as a water sports team and train them." This new boost aims to promote sports, tourism, and job opportunities in Nagapattinam district.