CM Sukhu today flagged off a 20-member Indian team heading to Osaka, Japan, to compete in the Shitokai Goju-Ryu Karate Championship, scheduled from July 15 to 23, 2025. The ceremony took place at the CM’s official residence.
Extending his best wishes, the Chief Minister called it a proud moment for the country and lauded the athletes for representing India on the international stage. “Representing the nation is a matter of immense honour and a lifetime memory for any athlete,” he said, commending their dedication and hard work.
Reaffirming the Himachal Pradesh Government’s commitment to promoting sports, the CM highlighted recent initiatives aimed at encouraging youth participation and steering them away from drug abuse. He noted that the state has significantly increased prize money for international medal winners, with Olympic gold medalists now receiving ₹5 crore, up from ₹3 crore. Similar increases have been made for silver and bronze medalists, and for winners in the Asian and Para Asian Games.
The Indian contingent includes 11 players from Roots Country School, Baghi, and others from various parts of Himachal Pradesh and the country. This marks India’s return to the prestigious championship after a five-year gap. The team is accompanied by head coach Sensei Anil Kumar Jishta and assistant coach Sensei Hari Tamang.
Roots Country School founder Sunil Rohta was also present during the flag-off ceremony.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
