MSLTA Announces New Tennis Initiatives in Collaboration with Government of Maharashtra

POSTED BY:- Poonam S. Juthani
DT:-13/03/2026
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On 10th March 2026, the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) hosted a press conference at its Dr. G.A. Ranade Tennis Centre in Mumbai to unveil upcoming initiatives aimed at advancing tennis in the state. The event brought together key dignitaries including Mr. Prashant Sutar, President of MSLTA; Mr. Shravan Hardikar, Managing Director of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA); and Mr. Ashish Sharma, alongside members of the media and tennis fraternity.

The session began with Mr. Prashant Sutar outlining MSLTA’s vision for the future of tennis in Maharashtra. He emphasized the importance of building strong grassroots programs to nurture young talent and ensure that tennis becomes more accessible to aspiring players across the state. Sutar highlighted that the association’s roadmap includes both infrastructure development and training initiatives, designed to create a sustainable ecosystem for the sport.

Mr. Shravan Hardikar spoke about the role of MMRDA in supporting sports infrastructure within Mumbai’s rapidly growing urban landscape. He noted that tennis, like other sports, requires modern facilities and accessible venues to thrive. Hardikar stressed that collaboration between government bodies and sports associations is essential to ensure that infrastructure projects align with the needs of athletes and communities.

Mr. Ashish Sharma added to the discussion by focusing on the importance of integrating tennis into schools and community programs. He pointed out that early exposure to the sport can help identify and nurture talent at a young age, while also promoting fitness and discipline among students. Sharma emphasized that tennis should not remain confined to elite circles but should be embraced as a sport for all.

The press conference also touched upon MSLTA’s plans to host more tournaments and training camps in the coming years. These events are expected to provide local players with opportunities to compete at higher levels and gain exposure to national and international standards. The dignitaries collectively underscored the importance of creating pathways for young athletes to progress from grassroots programs to professional circuits.

The atmosphere at the Dr. G.A. Ranade Tennis Centre was one of optimism and determination. Attendees witnessed a clear commitment from both MSLTA and the Government of Maharashtra to elevate tennis in the state. The discussions highlighted not only the challenges faced by the sport but also the opportunities that lie ahead with coordinated efforts.

One of the key takeaways from the session was the emphasis on inclusivity. The speakers reiterated that tennis must reach beyond traditional boundaries, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds have access to training and facilities. This approach, they noted, will not only broaden the talent pool but also strengthen the sport’s cultural presence in Maharashtra.

The event concluded with a collective call to action—encouraging stakeholders, coaches, and communities to actively participate in the growth of tennis. The dignitaries expressed confidence that with sustained efforts, Maharashtra can emerge as a leading hub for tennis in India.

In summary, the MSLTA press conference marked an important step in shaping the future of tennis in the state. With initiatives focused on infrastructure, grassroots development, and inclusivity, the association and government leaders presented a vision that is both ambitious and achievable. The session left attendees with a sense of purpose and anticipation, as Maharashtra prepares to strengthen its position in the national tennis landscape.