CM Inaugurates Multipurpose Sports Stadium at Sanjauli, Announces Rs. 1 Crore for Ground Development.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday inaugurated the newly constructed Multipurpose Sports Stadium at Sanjauli, marking a significant step towards strengthening sports infrastructure in the state. Built at a cost of Rs. 3.18 crore, the stadium features an open sports ground, an open hall, a kitchen, and other essential facilities aimed at promoting sporting activities and community events.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also inaugurated Himachal Pradesh’s first Chitta Awareness Volleyball Tournament, organized as part of the ongoing International Summer Festival Shimla. He unveiled the tournament’s running trophy and announced a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh for the winning team.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from across the state, with 13 teams taking part in the volleyball tournament. The Chief Minister took the salute of the march-past presented by the participating teams and administered an anti-drug abuse oath to all players and attendees, emphasizing the need to keep youth away from substance abuse.
In a series of announcements aimed at enhancing public amenities in the area, Shri Sukhu sanctioned Rs. 1 crore for the further improvement and development of the Sanjauli Ground. He also announced the establishment of a Primary Health Centre (PHC) in the area and declared that the historic Sanjauli Holi Fair would be upgraded to district-level status.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to promoting sports and creating opportunities for athletes. He said that efforts are underway to host prestigious Khelo India competitions in Himachal Pradesh, and necessary directions have already been issued to the concerned departments.
He further informed that the government has increased prize money for winners of international sporting events and is in the process of formulating a policy to reward national-level sportspersons. According to him, these measures are intended to encourage greater participation in sports and recognize the achievements of athletes representing the state.
Highlighting ongoing investments in sports infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced that a modern stadium is being constructed at Ghatasani at an estimated cost of Rs. 10 crore.
Recalling his own school days, Shri Sukhu shared his experiences as a sports participant and said that he understands the challenges faced by athletes. He noted that the state government has increased diet allowances for sportspersons, with athletes participating in competitions within Himachal Pradesh now receiving ₹400 per day and those competing outside the state receiving Rs. 500 per day. Additionally, air travel facilities are being provided for journeys exceeding 200 kilometres to facilitate participation in competitions.
Local MLA Harish Janartha said that Sanjauli Ground is one of the oldest sports grounds in the region and that the long-standing demand for a quality sports facility has finally been fulfilled. He lauded the Chief Minister’s vision of encouraging youth to pursue sports and stay away from drugs, adding that several other sports grounds are also being developed across Shimla.
Among those present on the occasion were Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh, Director of Youth Services and Sports Shivam Pratap Singh, along with other dignitaries and officials.
The inauguration of the new sports stadium and the launch of the anti-drug awareness volleyball tournament underscore the state government’s twin focus on promoting sports excellence and fostering a healthy, drug-free environment for the youth of Himachal Pradesh.
