Himachal Pradesh Emerging as ‘Khel Bhoomi’: Government Building World-Class Sports Infrastructure to Empower Future Champions.
Shimla:
Himachal Pradesh is undergoing a dynamic transformation, emerging as a new hub of sporting excellence — aptly earning the title ‘Khel Bhoomi’. With a vision to nurture athletic talent and build an inclusive sports ecosystem, the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, is investing heavily in world-class infrastructure and athlete welfare. This strategic push marks a new era for sports in the hill state.
At the centre of this transformation is the construction of a state-of-the-art multi-purpose sports complex in Kharedi, Nadaun (Hamirpur district), with a proposed investment of Rs. 65 crore. The upcoming facility will feature an eight-lane swimming pool, an Olympic-standard shooting range, arenas for wrestling and boxing, Kabaddi and yoga centres, and world-class provisions for table tennis and badminton. This landmark project is expected to shape the future of budding athletes across Himachal.
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized that the government’s commitment goes far beyond infrastructure — it is about empowering youth to dream big and compete globally. For the first time in the state, participation certificates issued by recognized sports bodies are now officially recognized for academic purposes. Schools have been instructed to mark participating students on ‘special leave’ instead of absent, in line with SGFI norms. “It must be ensured that students are not marked absent but granted special leave in attendance registers,” the Chief Minister directed.
The government’s vision includes not only flagship projects but also grassroots initiatives. A 100-bed sports hostel will be established this year at Luhnu, Bilaspur, while major upgrades are being carried out at the Rajiv Gandhi Multi-Purpose Stadium in Katasani, Shimla. Indoor stadiums are under construction in Solan, and modern sports infrastructure is also being developed in Reckong Peo, Haroli, and Jaisinghpur. Additionally, synthetic tracks and field training centres are being built in Hamirpur and Sujanpur to provide high-performance training environments.
Understanding the critical role of nutrition and financial support, the state has enhanced daily diet allowances for sportspersons. Athletes at the primary level now receive Rs. 250 per day during state-level events, Rs. 400 at higher levels, and Rs. 500 during out-of-state competitions. Hostel athletes receive Rs. 250–400 per day depending on their location. So far, Rs. 76.98 lakh has been distributed to 421 athletes as diet money, while Rs. 6.01 lakh has supported the travel of 235 athletes.
To further motivate athletes, the government has substantially increased prize money. A total of Rs. 14.77 crore has been awarded to 21 International medallists, while other high-performing sportspersons received Rs. 44 lakh. These steps reflect the government’s unwavering resolve to not only celebrate success but also support athletes throughout their journey.
“Himachal is not just building sports infrastructure; it is preparing champions,” said CM Sukhu. Through strategic investment, inclusive policies, and a deep commitment to athlete welfare, Himachal Pradesh is redefining its identity as a powerhouse of sporting talent on the national stage.
