Himachal Pradesh Celebrates International Olympic Day with Olympic Run Event

On International Olympic Day, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Olympic Run, emphasizing the importance of sports in education and community health. The event, featuring around 200 athletes, highlighted the government's commitment to sports development, including the establishment of a Centre of Excellence and increased cash rewards for medalists. The Chief Minister urged youth to support anti-drug initiatives while celebrating the spirit of discipline and teamwork fostered through sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 14:26 IST

Olympic Run Kicks Off in Shimla

On Tuesday, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the Olympic Run from his official residence, Oak Over, in celebration of International Olympic Day. The event concluded at the Indira Gandhi State Sports Complex in Shimla, passing through CTO, and saw participation from approximately 200 athletes across both men's and women's categories.

Commitment to Sports Development

In his address on International Olympic Day, the Chief Minister expressed the State Government's dedication to enhancing sports throughout Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized that sports serve as a vital form of education, encouraging athletes to achieve excellence and bring recognition to the State.

Government Initiatives for Sports

The Chief Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to host 'Khelo India' events in the region. He noted that significant sports infrastructure has been established in districts such as Bilaspur, Kangra, Una, and Hamirpur to benefit local youth.

Additionally, a Centre of Excellence for sports is being constructed in Nadaun, Hamirpur district, with an investment of Rs 150 crore, expected to be completed by October this year.

Promoting Discipline and Teamwork

Sukhu remarked that sports foster discipline and teamwork among the youth, qualities essential for achieving success in life. He urged the young athletes to support the State Government's anti-drug initiatives and contribute to creating a drug-free, healthy community.

Increased Cash Rewards for Medalists

The Chief Minister announced a historic increase in cash rewards for medalists in international sports competitions. The cash prize for Olympic, Paralympic, and Winter Olympic gold medalists has risen from Rs 3 crore to Rs 5 crore.

Furthermore, the reward for gold medalists in the Asian Games and Para Asian Games has been elevated from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 4 crore, while those in the Commonwealth Games and Para Commonwealth Games will now receive Rs 3 crore, up from Rs 50 lakh.

Notable Attendees

The event was also attended by MLA Harish Janartha, Director of Youth Services and Sports Shivam Pratap Singh, General Secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Olympic Association Rajesh Bhandari, along with other esteemed guests.