Government is focusing on athletics as one of the key sports to be developed by bringing in international expertise in the field. The decision was taken in view of popularity of traditional athletics in rural areas of the country and the recent excellent performance of athletes in various international games.An Expression of Intent, EOI in this regard was signed between the International Association of Athletics Federations, IAAF, Sports Authority of India, SAI and Athletic Federation of India yesterday. The Joint move was signed to bring in international coaches, integrated support services and mental skills to develop athletes. SAI academy will primarily focus on IAAF Youth and Junior world champions and Youth Olympics Games and provide the infrastructure. IIAF will provide specialists in sprints, jump, heptathlon and decathlon and the AFI will assist in management of the programme.