Himachal Pradesh CM Thakur Sukhvinder flags-off Olympic run on International Olympic Day
Shimla, June 23
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday flagged off the Olympic Run from his official residence, Oak Over, on the occasion of International Olympic Day, which culminated at the Indira Gandhi State Sports Complex, Shimla via CTO.
Around 200 athletes participated in the event, which was organised in both men's and women's categories. Extending his greetings on International Olympic Day, the Chief Minister said that the State Government was committed to promoting sports across the State.
He remarked, "Sports are also a form of education. Just as students excel in academics, athletes should strive to bring laurels to the State through their achievements in sports."
He said that the State Government was making concerted efforts to host 'Khelo India' events in Himachal Pradesh.
He added that robust sports infrastructure has already been developed in Bilaspur, Kangra, Una and Hamirpur districts for the benefit of the youth.
"A Centre of Excellence for sports is also being established at Nadaun in Hamirpur district at a cost of Rs 150 crore, which is expected to be completed by October this year," he added.
The Chief Minister said that sports inculcate the spirit of discipline and teamwork among the youth, which are essential for success in life.
He also appealed to them to actively support the State Government's anti-drug campaign and contribute towards building a drug-free and healthy society.
Sukhu further stated that the State Government has made a historic enhancement in cash rewards for medal winners in international sporting events. "The cash award for gold medalists in the Olympics, Paralympics and Winter Olympics has been increased from Rs 3 crore to Rs 5 crore."
"Similarly, the reward for gold medalists in the Asian Games and Para Asian Games has been raised from Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 4 crore, while the cash prize for gold medalists in the Commonwealth Games and Para Commonwealth Games has been increased from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 3 crore," he added.
MLA Harish Janartha, Director Youth Services and Sports, Shivam Pratap Singh, General Secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Olympic Association, Rajesh Bhandari and other distinguished guests were also present on the occasion.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Olympic Day Run is a nice tradition, but 200 athletes is a small number for a state with such potential. We need to focus on grassroots talent in remote areas - hill kids are naturally athletic. Also, the anti-drug campaign mention is crucial, youth should be steered towards sports rather than addiction. Hope this isn't just another photo op.
Big announcement on cash rewards - ₹5 crore for Olympic gold is fantastic! But we must remember that most of our sportspersons come from humble backgrounds. Need proper coaches, diet plans, and training facilities in every district, not just Bilaspur or Kangra. Shimla also needs better infrastructure. Appreciate the effort though 👏
As someone who grew up in Himachal, this brings back memories of school sports days. The CM's comparison of sports to education is spot on - discipline and teamwork are life skills. Though I wonder how many of these 200 participants will actually get sustained support. Let's hope the Khelo India events materialise and don't get delayed by bureaucracy.
Good to see the government focusing on sports. ₹150 crore for Nadaun centre is serious money. But I hope it's not just about infrastructure - we need coaches who can train athletes to Olympic level. Also, why only four districts mentioned? What about Mandi, Shimla rural areas? Still, a positive step forward. Proud of Himachal! 🏔️
The anti-drug campaign link to sports is very relevant - we see so many youth in Himachal
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