Dehradun: The 28th All India Forest Sports Competition-2025 began on Wednesday. The opening ceremony was held at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Raipur. It included a march past, torch lighting, and cultural programs. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who presided over the event, said that it is crucial for forest personnel to remain fit, as they are the true guardians of forest and environmental protection. He added that Uttarakhand has become a pioneer in sports and environmental protection. Earlier in the morning, various sports competitions were held at Maharana Pratap Sports College and Parade Ground. Chhattisgarh won the most gold medals on the first day, with five. Forty-two teams are participating in the competition.
Chief Minister Dhami said that it is a matter of pride for Uttarakhand to host this competition. He added that sports develop discipline, teamwork, and a spirit of struggle in individuals. He expressed his full confidence that the forest officers and athletes from across the country, through their discipline and hard work, will not only achieve new heights in sports but will also play a crucial role in conserving and enhancing forest wealth, contributing to our unwavering commitment to building a green Uttarakhand.
They will not only achieve excellence, but will also realize their commitment to forest conservation. CM Dhami said that through your hard work, you are not only enhancing the state’s pride but also creating a green, healthy, and sustainable environment for future generations. You are all brand ambassadors of fitness. The state government is continuously striving to promote a sports culture and conserve and enhance forest wealth.
Uttarakhand is the country’s oxygen bank and water tower
Chief Minister Dhami said that approximately 71 percent of the state’s area is forested, making it the country’s “oxygen bank” and “water tower.” He added that the state has six national parks, seven wildlife sanctuaries, and four conservation reserves, which are far higher than the national average. He said that the state government has implemented modern technology such as GPS tracking, drone surveillance, and dog squads for wildlife conservation.
Forest workers play a leading role in protecting the environment: Uniyal
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal said that forest workers play a leading role in protecting the environment. He congratulated them for their role in forest and wildlife conservation. Environmental guardians have come to Uttarakhand from all over the country. Director General of Forests Sushil Awasthi highlighted the year of the competition’s inception and its objectives. MLAs Umesh Sharma Kau, Khajan Das, Savita Kapoor, Principal Secretary of Forests RK Sudhanshu, and Chief Conservator of Forests Sameer Sinha were present.
Teams Received a Warm Welcome
People applauded the teams as they arrived during the march past. Cultural programs also provided a welcome. The stadium was also decorated with lights. 3,390 athletes from 42 teams from states, union territories, and various institutions are participating in the competition. The competition will be held until November 16.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “One Tree in the Name of Mother” campaign, CM Dhami urged the players that planting a tree in the name of their mother in the stadium complex would symbolize their love and respect for their mother and make this event memorable.
