Himachal govt making efforts to host Khelo India competitions: Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday said that the state government is making efforts to host Khelo India competitions in Himachal Pradesh.

The Chief Minister also inaugurated a Multipurpose Sports Stadium at Sanjauli. Constructed at a cost of Rs 3.18 crore, the stadium is equipped with an open ground for sporting events, an open hall, a kitchen and other amenities.

Sukhu also inaugurated Himachal Pradesh’s first Chitta Awareness Volleyball Tournament at Sanjauli, being organised as part of the International Summer Festival, Shimla. He unveiled the tournament’s running trophy and announced a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh for the winning team.

The Chief Minister took the salute during the march-past presented by 13 teams from across the state and administered an oath against drug abuse to all participants. He also announced Rs 1 crore for the further development of the Sanjauli Ground, the setting up of a Primary Health Centre (PHC), and the upgradation of the Sanjauli Holi Fair to district-level status.

Sukhu said the state government has enhanced the prize money for winners of international competitions and will soon introduce a policy to reward national-level sportspersons to further promote sports in the state. He added that a stadium is being constructed at Ghatasani near Shimla at a cost of Rs 10 crore.

He said athletes participating in competitions within the state are being provided a diet allowance of Rs 400 per day, while those competing outside the state receive Rs 500 per day. Air travel facilities are also being provided for journeys exceeding 200 km, he added.

MLA Harish Janartha said encouraging youth to take up sports and stay away from drugs reflects the Chief Minister’s vision. Shimla Mayor Surinder Chauhan and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.