Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to Visit Kaza on June 27; To Lay Foundation Stones for Major Sports and Development Projects.
Shimla:
Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju is scheduled to visit Kaza in Lahaul-Spiti district on a two-day tour beginning June 27, during which he will lay the foundation stones for several high-impact sports and development projects under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Yojana (PMJVY).
On June 28, the Minister will inaugurate projects worth Rs. 30 crore in Kaza, aimed at transforming the region into a hub for high-altitude sports. These projects include the foundation laying of a High Altitude Sports Training Centre, an Ice Hockey Rink and Pavilion, and a Cricket Ground-equipped Sports Training Facility.
The following day, on June 29, Rijiju will also lay the foundation stone for a comprehensive sewerage scheme in Keylong, estimated at Rs. 23 crore, which will significantly improve urban infrastructure in the remote district.
These initiatives are part of the government’s broader effort to bring infrastructure and sporting excellence to tribal and remote regions, fostering local talent and improving quality of life.
Boost for Ice Hockey and Sports Culture in Spiti
The upcoming sports infrastructure is expected to greatly benefit the youth of Spiti Valley, who have already demonstrated exceptional talent in winter sports, particularly ice hockey. Recently, in the National Ice Hockey Championship held in Dehradun, the Himachal Pradesh team won the bronze medal, with 90% of the players hailing from Spiti.
The proposed High Altitude Sports Training Centre is aimed at nurturing such local talents and offering professional training opportunities that meet national and international standards.
Projects Initiated During BJP Leadership
Former MLA and BJP leader Ravi Thakur stated that the project proposals were initiated during his tenure and later submitted to the central government. He had also recently met with Minister Rijiju in Delhi to expedite approvals. “It is heartening to see these long-awaited projects getting the green light,” said Thakur.
A Milestone for Spiti’s Sporting Aspirations
Speaking about the significance of the projects, Kaza’s Acting ADC and SDM Shikha said the upcoming stadium and training facilities will serve as a turning point for the entire Spiti Valley. “This will not only benefit the youth but will also elevate the region’s visibility in the national sports landscape,” she said.
These developments mark a significant stride in bridging the gap between remote tribal regions and mainstream infrastructure and sports development, aligning with the government’s vision of inclusive growth.
