Rs.72 Crore Ice Hockey Rink to Be Built in Jispa; MLA Anuradha Rana Concludes Ski Training Camp in Keylong.
Shimla:
A major boost to winter sports infrastructure in Lahaul-Spiti was announced on Sunday as MLA Anuradha Rana revealed that an Ice Hockey Rink will be constructed in Jispa at a cost of Rs. 72 crore. The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of a seven-day Basic Ski Training Programme organized by the Lahaul Mountaineering and Snowboard Association in Keylong.
Presiding over the valedictory function, the MLA said the primary objective of the training programme was to encourage children and youth in the region to actively participate in winter sports. She emphasized that along with academics, sports play a crucial role in maintaining physical fitness and overall development. “A healthy body enables individuals to perform every task efficiently. Youth must channel their energy into positive activities,” she said, adding that sports serve as a powerful medium to steer young people away from substance abuse.
Major Investment in Winter Sports Infrastructure
Highlighting ongoing efforts to promote winter sports in the district, Rana stated that a world-class stadium will be constructed in Spiti at an estimated cost of Rs. 75 crore, with work expected to begin this year.
She further informed that under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Yojana, the proposal for constructing an Ice Hockey Rink in Jispa at a cost of Rs. 72 crore has already received state-level approval and is likely to receive central clearance soon.
In addition, funds have been allocated for the development of Ice Hockey Rinks at Gwazang, Cheling, Daling, and Darcha, among other locations in the district. The MLA noted that Lahaul-Spiti’s unique terrain and climatic conditions are highly conducive to winter sports, and efforts are being made to systematically develop these natural advantages.
She also mentioned that financial assistance of Rs. 2 lakh has so far been provided for organizing such events in Keylong and Gondhla, and similar support will be extended for training programmes in other parts of the district.
28 Youth Complete Basic Ski Training
A total of 28 local youths and school students enthusiastically participated in the week-long Basic Ski Training Programme. At the closing ceremony, participants were awarded certificates by the MLA.
During the training, instructors provided detailed guidance on the correct use of ski equipment, techniques for maintaining balance, safe movement on snow, and methods to prevent injuries during falls.
Upcoming Training and Competitions
Rana announced that the second phase of the ski training programme will be conducted in Gondhla from February 23 to 29, followed by another session in Trilokinath from March 5 to 11. A District-Level Ski Competition is scheduled to be held in Trilokinath on March 12 and 13.
From among participants of all training camps, 20 meritorious trainees will be selected for an advanced Basic Ski Training Programme to be organized in Jispa from March 20 to April 2.
On the occasion, office bearers of the association honored the MLA with a traditional khatak and cap. Retired IG of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Prem Singh, also addressed the gathering and guided the young participants.
Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Zila Parishad Chairperson Veena Devi, former District President Gyalchan Thakur, District President Dorje Angrup, Norbu Pans (Association President), Norbu Vakil, Tashi Kesang, Dorje Amitabh, Dorje Thollpa, Nawag Gyalchan, Wangyal Chelingpa Gurmaid, and Sushil among others.
