Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced an ambitious plan to establish 23 sports academies across eight cities in Uttarakhand, aiming to strengthen sports infrastructure and nurture world-class athletes.
Speaking at the first anniversary event of the renovated Himadri Ice Rink at Maharana Pratap Sports College, the Chief Minister emphasized that the facility is a matter of pride not just for the state but for the entire country.
Himadri Ice Rink: India’s Only International-Level Facility
Dhami highlighted that Himadri Ice Rink is the only international-standard ice rink in India, offering world-class facilities to athletes. Originally established in 2011, the rink hosted the prestigious South Asian Winter Games in its early years.
However, due to maintenance challenges, the facility remained non-operational for a long period. Recognizing its importance, the state government undertook its renovation at a cost of approximately ₹8.5 crore and reopened it last year.
Focus on Green Energy and Sustainability
To ensure sustainable operations, the government has installed a 1 MW solar power plant at the ice rink, promoting green energy usage. This move aligns with Uttarakhand’s broader vision of eco-friendly sports infrastructure development.
Sports Legacy Plan to Train 1,900 Athletes Annually
Under the upcoming Sports Legacy Plan, the government aims to:
- Train 920 world-class athletes every year
- Provide coaching to 1,000 additional players annually
This initiative is expected to significantly boost the state’s performance in national and international sporting events.
New Sports University and Women’s College in Pipeline
The Chief Minister also shared updates on major upcoming projects:
- Establishment of Uttarakhand’s first sports university in Haldwani
- Development of a women’s sports college in Lohaghat
He instructed Sports Minister Rekha Arya to ensure that sports-related schemes and processes are implemented without unnecessary delays.
Ice Rink Becomes a Platform for Youth Dreams
Speaking at the event, Rekha Arya stated that the ice rink has evolved into a powerful platform for young talent. Over the past year, thousands of children have visited the facility to learn ice sports and explore new career opportunities.
Boost to Ice Sports and Future Competitions
With its revival, Himadri Ice Rink is once again emerging as a hub for national and international competitions. The government believes this will not only enhance Uttarakhand’s sporting reputation but also position India more strongly in winter sports globally.
The revival of Himadri Ice Rink and the announcement of 23 new sports academies mark a significant step in Uttarakhand’s journey toward becoming a sports powerhouse, offering world-class opportunities for athletes and inspiring the next generation.
