Shahpur Hosts Exciting U-21 Volleyball Championship and Mini Half Marathon
Celebrating Youth and Sports in Shahpur
Grand U-21 Volleyball Championship and Mini Half Marathon Held in Shahpur
Shahpur
Shahpur recently came alive with a spirited celebration of youth and athletics as the Himachal Pradesh State Volleyball Association hosted the inaugural U-21 Youth Volleyball Championship alongside a Mini Half Marathon at Shahpur Ground. The event attracted a large number of young athletes, who demonstrated remarkable discipline, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship.
Member of Parliament for Hamirpur and former Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur attended the event as the chief guest, with former minister and President of the National Volleyball Association Virender Kanwar serving as a special guest.
During his speech, Thakur encouraged the youth to reject drug use and instead embrace sports as a vital avenue for personal growth. He stated, “Those who exert themselves on the field are the ones who will shape the future of both the state and the nation,” urging young individuals to engage in sports and contribute to making Himachal a frontrunner in athletics.
Thakur also highlighted the government's dedication to sports, noting that the sports budget in India has surged from ₹800 crore in 2014 to ₹3,700 crore today, thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives. He stressed the importance of enhancing sports facilities in Himachal and increasing the number of coaches across various sports, especially with the 2036 Olympics on the horizon.
Virender Kanwar remarked that sports extend beyond mere competition; they are essential for character development. He commended the organizers for cultivating a robust sports culture that diverts youth from negative influences and promotes positive development.
The Mini Half Marathon witnessed an impressive turnout, with the atmosphere at Shahpur Ground filled with cheers and applause. The U-21 Volleyball Championship also showcased exceptional performances, earning accolades from the audience.
District President Kamal Sharma expressed his appreciation to the chief guest and other dignitaries, reaffirming the association’s commitment to fostering young talent and continuing such initiatives in the future.
Numerous dignitaries, including MLA Thakur Ranbir Singh Nikka, former minister Sarveen Chaudhary, and district BJP leaders, were present at the event.