Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 5 May: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the first anniversary event of the fully renovated Himadri Ice Rink at Maharana Pratap Sports College here today. Extending his greetings to athletes, sports enthusiasts and dignitaries present on the occasion, the CM also unveiled the jersey of the Uttarakhand ice hockey team and launched a ‘Pay and Play’ portal aimed at improving access to sporting infrastructure.
It may be noted that the Himadri Ice Rink, redeveloped at a cost of approximately Rs 8.5 crores, has emerged as the country’s only international-standard ice rink and is being projected as a matter of pride not only for Uttarakhand but for the entire nation. The CM recalled that the rink, originally established in 2011 and host to the South Asian Winter Games, was not under use in subsequent years due to maintenance challenges and eventually it closed down. Recognising its potential, the state government undertook its restoration and reopened it last year on the same date, making it available once again to players and the public.
Emphasising sustainability, Dhami observed a one-megawatt solar power plant has been installed to support the rink’s operations, promoting the use of green energy. He observed that coordinated efforts by the government have resulted in the facility regaining prominence, with the venue now hosting a series of national and international events over the past year. These include the National Ice Skating Championship, the Asian Trophy, the National Ice Hockey League and training camps for national teams across various categories. At present, athletes from multiple states are undergoing training in ice skating and ice hockey at the venue.
The CM also described as a landmark achievement the successful hosting of the Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy in August last year, which saw participation from more than 200 athletes representing 11 countries. He remarked that such events have positioned Uttarakhand prominently on the global winter sports map and expressed confidence that India would emerge as a strong contender in winter sports, given the growing interest in disciplines such as ice skating and ice hockey.
Referring to national initiatives led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including Khelo India and the Fit India Movement, the Chief Minister stated that a robust sports culture is being fostered across the country. He added that Uttarakhand has gained a new identity as a ‘sports Bhoomi’ alongside its traditional recognition as ‘Devbhoomi’, particularly following the successful organisation of the 38th National Games, where athletes from the state secured a record 103 medals.
Highlighting future plans and schemes, Dhami on this occasion, announced that the state government will soon implement a Sports Legacy Plan under which 23 sports academies will be established across eight major cities, providing high-level training annually to 920 elite athletes and around 1,000 other sportspersons. He further informed that work is progressing rapidly for the establishment of Uttarakhand’s first sports university in Haldwani and a women’s sports college in Lohaghat.
The CM also reminded that a new sports policy has been implemented to ensure holistic development of sports in the state, including provisions for government employment to athletes who win medals at national and international levels. He also urged Sports Minister Rekha Arya to ensure that there are no unnecessary delays in schemes and processes related to players. Residential sports colleges are providing free training along with sports scholarships, while initiatives such as the Chief Minister Sports Development Fund, Chief Minister Player Promotion Scheme, Chief Minister Emerging Player Scheme and Sports Kit Scheme are being implemented to nurture talent.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through sports, the Chief Minister said Uttarakhand is working with a clear vision to become a leading state in the sporting arena. He expressed confidence that athletes from the state will continue to bring laurels at national and international levels through their dedication and talent.
Those present on this occasion included Sports Minister Rekha Arya, MLA Umesh Sharma Kau, Special Secretary Sports Amit Sinha, officials of the sports department and a large number of players and sports enthusiasts.
