Tehri Garhwal: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated the 25th All India Police Water Sports Cluster Championship on Wednesday at the Water Sports and Adventure Institute in Tehri Garhwal, marking a significant milestone for the state’s growing sports infrastructure and tourism appeal.
Grand Welcome to Participants from Across India
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to police personnel, athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts from across the country. Teams from 19 states and Union Territories are participating in the championship, with over 440 male and female athletes competing in water sports disciplines like canoeing, rowing, and kayaking.
Boost to Adventure Sports and Tourism
Dhami expressed gratitude to the All India Police Sports Control Board for selecting Uttarakhand as the host state. He emphasized that such prestigious events not only provide a platform for athletes to showcase their talent but also strengthen Uttarakhand’s identity as a hub for adventure sports and tourism.
Importance of Fitness in Police Forces
Highlighting the role of police and paramilitary forces, the Chief Minister said that physical and mental fitness is crucial for maintaining law and order and ensuring public trust. He noted that sports help inculcate discipline, teamwork, and resilience—qualities essential for personnel working in challenging conditions.
Role of Water Sports in Disaster Management
Dhami underlined the practical significance of water sports, stating that skills in activities like kayaking and rowing are extremely valuable during flood rescue operations, river safety, coastal security, and disaster management. Such expertise often proves life-saving in emergencies.
Government’s Push for Sports Development
Referring to initiatives led by Narendra Modi, including Khelo India and Fit India Movement, the Chief Minister said these programs have strengthened sports culture nationwide and inspired youth participation.
He added that the Uttarakhand government is continuously working to enhance sports infrastructure and provide better facilities to athletes.
Uttarakhand Emerging as a ‘Sports Hub’
The Chief Minister highlighted the successful hosting of the 38th National Games in the state, showcasing Uttarakhand’s capability to organize large-scale sporting events. He said the state is rapidly evolving from “Devbhoomi” (Land of Gods) to a “Sports Hub,” with ambitions to host international competitions in the future.
Commitment to Overall Development
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to holistic development, Dhami expressed confidence that such events will significantly contribute to tourism growth, talent development, and economic progress in the region.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Kishore Upadhyay, District Panchayat President Ishita Sajwan, and Municipal Chairman Mohan Singh Rawat, among others.
The 25th All India Police Water Sports Championship is expected to significantly contribute to sports development, tourism promotion, and talent enhancement in Uttarakhand, reinforcing the state’s position as a key destination for adventure sports in India.
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