Dehradun: To establish Uttarakhand as a sports hub, the government is implementing the Sports Legacy Plan. Under this plan, 23 sports academies will be established in eight major cities. Each year, 900 world-class athletes and 1,000 other athletes will receive high-level training. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made this announcement on Friday at the launch of the Asian Cadet Cup at the Gaulapar International Stadium.
Inaugurating the Asian Cadet Cup, an under-17 fencing tournament in Gaulapar, he said that for the first time in the country, the land of the gods has been given the opportunity to host the Asian Fencing Championships. This is a matter of pride for Uttarakhand. The government has developed world-class sports infrastructure in Uttarakhand by constructing a state-of-the-art stadium at a cost of ₹517 crore and bringing in sports equipment worth ₹100 crore. As a result, Uttarakhand is becoming an important venue for hosting not only national but also international sports competitions. The Asian Cadet Cup is a prime example of this.
It was reported that Uttarakhand’s first sports university is being established in Haldwani and a women’s sports college in Lohaghat. The new sports policy implemented in the state provides out-of-turn government jobs to national and international medal-winning athletes. The four percent sports quota, which was discontinued, has been reinstated.
Pantnagar Airport to be made international
The Chief Minister stated that continuous efforts are being made to promote sports in the state. Work is underway to make Uttarakhand a hub for sports. To ensure better facilities for athletes, construction of large hotels has become necessary. New trains are being planned to provide better facilities to athletes in Devbhoomi. Work is underway to make Pantnagar Airport international. Discussions regarding this matter were held with the Aviation Ministry. The foundation stone for the international airport will be laid soon.
Be vigilant yourself and raise awareness among others
Chief Minister Dhami appealed to the athletes and spectators present at the stadium to be vigilant about environmental and water conservation and to raise awareness among others. The Chief Minister also urged the youth to stay away from drugs. He began his address with the slogan “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” When the sound failed, he asked the commissioner to adjust the microphone volume.
