Panaji, Apr 11 (IANS): Goa Sports Minister Govind Gaude on Monday warned parents trying to use political influence to get their wards into state level teams and tournaments.

Speaking to reporters, Gaude, who took charge of the state government's Sports and Youth Affairs Ministry last week, also said that the Sports department had been neglected in the state budget as far as financial allocation was concerned.

"There are many parents who come with (political) influence for the sake of their children. That will not be entertained," Gaude told reporters.

"I want to tell the parents rightaway. I will discard your ward, even if he is good, if such an approach is made. No influence in sports," Gaude also said.

The Sports Minister also said that the neglect of the Sports department in the state budget was an "open secret".

"Sports is neglected in the budget. It is an open secret. It is an open government document. To make Goa sports-ready, finance is most important. I will speak to the CM about it," Gaude said.