Shimla, December 7
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the Sadbhavana T-20 Cricket Tournament today at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. The event was organised by the HIM Sports and Cultural Association, began with a match between Governor’s XI and Press XI.
Governor’s XI won the toss and chose to bat first. Their strong performance was led by Vivek Bhatia, who scored 106 runs and Abid Hussain who added 118 runs. The team set an impressive target of 255 runs by losing only one wicket. In response, Press XI struggled and was all out for just 74 runs, resulting in a resounding victory for Governor’s XI by 181 runs.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Sh. Shukla emphasized the deeper purpose of the event. He said that beyond sportsmanship it spreads awareness about drug addiction. He said the tournament’s theme, “Leave addiction, play sports,” was a powerful message to inspire young people to stay away from drugs. He said that drug abuse was a significant societal challenge and urged collective action to make Himachal Pradesh, known as Devbhoomi free from this menace. He also announced plans for a comprehensive anti-drug campaign to be conducted at the grassroots level across villages.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu praised the organizers for their efforts to highlight the harmful effects of drug abuse through this sporting event. He said that the participation of teams represents the four pillars of democracy and sends a strong & positive message to society. He said that the state government was committed to fight against drug menace and in this direction working with dedication to promote sports and improve opportunities for youth.
The Chief Minister highlighted several measures taken by the government to support athletes. The prize money for winners of international competitions such as the Olympics, Paralympics and Asian Games, has been significantly increased. Gold medalists now receive Rs. 5 crore, silver medalists Rs. 3 crore and bronze medalists Rs. 2 crore. Similarly, in the Asian Games and Para Asian Games the prize money for gold medalists was increased to Rs. 4 crore, with Rs. 2.5 crore and Rs. 1.5 crore for silver and bronze medalists, respectively. He said that Paralympians like Nishad Kumar and Ajay Kumar have been recognised with substantial monetary rewards for their achievements.
He said that to further encourage athletes, the state government has enhanced allowances, including diet allowances, and improved travel provisions for competitions. Athletes now receive AC three-tier train fare for journeys up to 200 kilometres and economy-class airfare for longer distances. He said that the government has also announced the construction of integrated sports complexes in all constituencies. These facilities aim to foster greater participation in sports and provide modern amenities which would help young people stay away from drug abuse and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Both leaders expressed hope that the tournament would inspire the youth to lead fulfilling lives free from addiction while promoting a culture of sportsmanship and community well-being.
President of HIM Sports and Cultural Association Naresh Chauhan welcomed the Governor and Chief Minister and honoured them with Himachali Cap and Shawl.
Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Acting Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil and Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
