Garhwal Post Bureau
Pithoragarh, 8 May: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami dedicated the upgraded cricket ground at Surendra Singh Valdiya Stadium here today to the people of the district during his visit to the region. The CM also interacted with the players and youth and participated in various sporting activities, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm among young athletes.
During the programme, the Chief Minister formally inaugurated the cricket pitch by stepping onto the ground and batting for an over of six deliveries. His energetic and cordial interaction with the players on the field drew considerable excitement among those present at the stadium.
Following the inauguration, Dhami interacted with the players and the youth and encouraged them to actively participate in sports. He also joined them in football, hockey and other sporting activities. Addressing the gathering on this occasion, the CM observed that sports are not only a means of physical development but also a powerful medium for instilling discipline, self-confidence and team spirit among the youth.
On the occasion, Dhami also administered an anti-drug pledge to the youth present at the venue and urged them to stay away from substance abuse and work towards building a bright future. He appealed to young people to join the state-wide anti-drug campaign and said sports motivate youth towards discipline, a healthy lifestyle and positive thinking.
Dhami also honoured nine athletes for their outstanding performances on this occasion. Reiterating the state government’s commitment towards the promotion of sports, he said Uttarakhand was moving towards becoming a leading state in the field of sports. The CM said the youth of the state possessed immense talent and potential. He added that initiatives such as Khel Mahakumbh are providing an excellent platform to talented players from rural and remote areas to showcase their abilities.
He further said the state government, through the new sports policy, is extending all possible support to emerging sportspersons so that they can bring laurels to Uttarakhand at the national and international levels. According to him, continuous efforts are being made to strengthen sports infrastructure and expand modern sports facilities across the state.
Dhami also spoke about strengthening sports infrastructure in Pithoragarh and other districts of Uttarakhand. He said the government’s objective is to provide a positive direction to youth through sports and prepare them for competition at national and international levels. Announcing another major facility for the stadium, the CM said floodlights would be installed around the cricket ground in the near future. Local public representatives, senior officials from the administration, sports enthusiasts and a large number of players were among those present during the programme.
