7-day basic ice skating training camp concludes in Lahaul-Spiti’s Darcha

The seven-day Basic Ice Skating Training Camp, organised by the Darcha Valley Multi Sports and Development Association in collaboration with the Youth Club Darcha, concluded on a grand note in Darcha, Lahaul-Spiti district. The closing ceremony was held yesterday, with Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana gracing the event as the chief guest.

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The camp saw the participation of 25 children from various age groups, all receiving foundational ice skating training. The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Thuktan Hishe, the president of the Darcha Valley Multi Sports and Development Association, and other officials, who presented traditional gifts to MLA Rana.

During her address, the MLA spoke about the immense potential of Lahaul-Spiti for adventure and winter sports. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting such activities, drawing parallels with similar initiatives in Leh-Ladakh and Spiti. The MLA assured the community that the district administration is identifying suitable locations within Lahaul Valley to develop adventure sports, aiming to provide local children with opportunities to excel at national and international levels.

Rana also encouraged the youth and local representatives from Panchayati Raj Institutions to share valuable suggestions to support the growth of winter sports in the region. She praised the achievements of children from Spiti Valley who have excelled in national ice hockey competitions and expressed her desire to help Lahaul’s youth achieve similar success.

In a further boost to winter sports in the region, MLA Rana announced a contribution of Rs 50,000 from her voluntary fund to support future activities. She expressed gratitude to the organisers, including the Darcha Valley Multi Sports and Development Association and Youth Club Darcha, for their successful execution of the camp. Rana emphasised the importance of such events, highlighting that they not only provide children with opportunities in sports but also instill discipline and help them steer clear of negative influences such as drug abuse.

The ceremony was attended by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Keylong Rajneesh Sharma, Former District Congress President Gyalson Thakur, District Council Member Dorje Larje, Darcha Gram Panchayat Pradhan Ashok Kumar, as well as local villagers and parents of the participants.

This event represents a significant step toward promoting winter sports in the tribal region, offering children a platform to hone their skills and pursue their passion for sports.