PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that apart from being a recreational and competitive activity, the water sports are also extremely useful in disaster management, flood relief, river rescue and coastal security. He said that proficiency in these sports can often prove life-saving and play a crucial role in saving lives in emergency situations.
The CM was virtually addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 25th All India Police Water Sports Cluster Championship held at the Water Sports and Adventure Institute, Tehri Garhwal on Wednesday.
Welcoming the players, the CM said that it is a matter of great pride for Uttarakhand that the state has got the opportunity to host this important national event for the first time.
Expressing gratitude to the All India Police Sports Control Board, the CM said that such events not only provide a platform for the players to showcase their talent but also play an important role in giving a new identity in the field of adventure sports and tourism to the State.
Dhami said that police and paramilitary personnel play a vital role in maintaining the nation’s security and law and order situation and therefore, it is crucial for them to remain physically and mentally fit. He said that sports not only enhance fitness but also develop discipline, team spirit and the ability to work under difficult circumstances.
The CM said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, campaigns like Khelo India and the Fit India Movement have strengthened the sports culture in the country. He averred that the State government is also continuously striving to promote sports and provide better facilities to the athletes. He said that Uttarakhand recently successfully hosted the 38th National Games and it is emerging as Khelbhoomi.
Dhami said that modern sports infrastructure is rapidly developing in the State and efforts are also being made to host international level competitions in the future. He expressed confidence that such events will contribute to the State’s development, tourism promotion and the development of sports talent.
More than 440 players from 19 teams across the country are participating in the competition. Events of canoeing, rowing and kayaking will be held in the competition.
Tehri MLA Kishore Upadhyaya and others were present on the occasion.
