CM Sukhu presented the Him Ratna-2026 Awards to 419 outstanding sportspersons at a grand state-level function, distributing cash rewards worth ₹17.85 crore. Recognizing achievements at both national and international levels, the state awarded ₹13.55 crore to 51 international athletes and ₹4.30 crore to 368 national-level players. Asian Games marathon silver medalist Sawan Barwal received ₹2.50 crore, while 10,000m bronze medalist Seema Kumari was awarded ₹1.50 crore. Additionally, ₹1 crore each was presented to cricketer Renuka Thakur and Asian Games gold-winning women’s kabaddi team members Ritu Negi, Pushpa Rana, Jyoti Thakur, and Bhawna Thakur.
To further encourage youth participation and secure the financial future of athletes, the state government announced a historic hike in award money across major sporting events. Olympic and Paralympic gold medal rewards have been raised from ₹3 crore to ₹5 crore, while Asian Games gold medal cash prizes saw a massive boost from ₹50 lakh to ₹4 crore. Silver and bronze payouts across all categories were similarly upgraded. Under a new cabinet decision, team event medalists will receive at least 25 percent of the total prize pool, while national-level coaches and international referees will be recognized with incentives of ₹3 lakh each.
Beyond monetary rewards, the state is launching targeted initiatives to engage young people constructively and steer them away from drug abuse. The Chief Minister launched the official website and mascot for the upcoming ‘Khelo Himachal Campaign’, scheduled to begin in Dharamshala on 20th November. The campaign will feature competitive multi-tier tournaments in cricket, volleyball, and kabaddi for youth aged 15 to 30, offering substantial cash rewards at sub-divisional, district, and state levels—with the top state team securing ₹21 lakh.
To build a sustainable sports ecosystem, the government is also expanding infrastructure and employment avenues for athletes. Highlighting key ongoing projects, the Chief Minister announced that a modern indoor stadium is being constructed at Nadaun in Hamirpur district at an estimated cost of ₹170 crore, designed to cater to 14 sports with world-class facilities. Youth Services and Sports Minister Yadvinder Goma praised the dedication of the state’s athletes, affirming that despite limited resources, Himachal Pradesh is fully committed to nurturing world-class sporting talent.
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