Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu jointly inaugurated the Sadbhavna T-20 Cricket Tournament at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. Organized by the HIM Sports and Cultural Association, the tournament began with an exciting match between Governor’s XI and Press XI.
Governor’s XI, winning the toss, opted to bat first and delivered a stellar performance. Vivek Bhatia scored a remarkable 106 runs, while Abid Hussain contributed an impressive 118 runs. The team set a formidable target of 255 runs, losing only one wicket. Press XI, in response, struggled and was bowled out for 74 runs, leading to a commanding 181-run victory for Governor’s XI.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sh. Shiv Pratap Shukla highlighted the event’s greater purpose beyond sportsmanship, emphasizing its role in raising awareness about drug addiction. He praised the tournament’s theme, “Leave Addiction, Play Sports,” as a motivational message for the youth to stay away from drugs. Recognizing drug abuse as a significant societal issue, he urged collective efforts to make Himachal Pradesh, the Devbhoomi, free from this menace. He also announced plans to launch a comprehensive anti-drug campaign targeting grassroots levels across the state.
Chief Minister commended the organizers for their initiative to address drug addiction through sports. He lauded the tournament’s inclusive participation, representing the four pillars of democracy, as a symbol of unity and positive societal change. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to combating drug abuse and promoting sports as a constructive avenue for youth.
The Chief Minister also outlined government measures to support athletes, including significant increases in prize money for winners of international competitions. Gold medalists now receive ₹5 crore, silver medalists ₹3 crore, and bronze medalists ₹2 crore for events like the Olympics and Paralympics. Similarly, Asian Games medalists are awarded ₹4 crore, ₹2.5 crore, and ₹1.5 crore for gold, silver, and bronze, respectively. Athletes like Paralympians Nishad Kumar and Ajay Kumar have been recognized with substantial rewards.
Additional initiatives include enhanced diet allowances, better travel provisions, and the construction of integrated sports complexes in all constituencies to encourage sports participation and provide modern facilities. These steps aim to steer the youth towards a healthier, addiction-free lifestyle.
Both the Governor and Chief Minister expressed hope that the tournament would inspire the youth to embrace sportsmanship, community well-being, and a life free from addiction. Naresh Chauhan, President of the HIM Sports and Cultural Association, welcomed the dignitaries and honored them with Himachali caps and shawls. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Acting Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, and other prominent personalities.
