Uttarakhand CM Launches MP Sports Festival, Promotes Sports Development Initiatives
Inauguration of MP Sports Festival
On Monday, Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami officially opened the MP Sports Festival in Almora. During the event, he kicked off competitions in football and badminton, and recognized international cricketer Ekta Bisht along with various sports coaches for their significant contributions to sports.
New Initiatives for Sports Infrastructure
The Chief Minister announced a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing sports infrastructure and promoting energy sustainability in Almora. Key developments include:
1. Construction of a multi-purpose artificial turf ground for hockey and football at the GIC Ground, designed for both day and night use.
2. Installation of 200 solar lights throughout the municipal area to improve lighting and support clean energy.
3. Development of a 50-bed hostel at the Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Stadium in Almora.
4. Upgrading the existing badminton court at the stadium to meet international standards.
Promoting a National Sports Culture
In his address, Dhami emphasized that the youth of India represent the nation's greatest asset, capable of realizing the vision of a strong and self-reliant country through dedication and talent. He mentioned that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, youth power is being acknowledged as a vital national force, with ongoing efforts to build a developed India. The MP Sports Festival, themed 'Fit Youth for a Developed India,' is envisioned as a mass movement to cultivate a sports culture across the nation.
Uttarakhand's Vision for Sports Advancement
The Chief Minister highlighted the impact of initiatives like Khelo India and the Fit India Movement, which have inspired Uttarakhand to enhance its sports culture. He noted that the state gained recognition by hosting the 38th National Games, where athletes secured a remarkable 103 medals. Uttarakhand is positioning itself as a leader in world-class sports infrastructure and is set to host various national and international sporting events. Upcoming plans include the rollout of a Sports Legacy Plan, which will establish 23 sports academies across eight major cities, and the creation of Uttarakhand's first Sports University in Haldwani, along with a Women's Sports College in Lohaghat. A new sports policy has also been introduced to support the overall development of sports and provide government jobs to medal winners at national and international levels. Continuous support for young athletes is being ensured through initiatives like the Chief Minister Sports Development Fund and the Chief Minister Player Incentive Scheme.
Enhancing Almora's Development
The Chief Minister also mentioned several projects aimed at boosting tourism, employment, and connectivity in Almora. Over the last four years, more than 250 km of roads have been constructed in the district under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. To enhance tourism and connectivity, helicopter services have been launched in Almora under the Udaan Scheme. Additionally, a reservoir project on the Gagas River is in progress to strengthen the drinking water supply.