Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated a one-day Pro-Boxing tournament organized by the International Boxing Organization in Himachal Pradesh today. The competition was held in commemoration of the birth anniversary of the former Chief Minister, late Veerabhadra Singh. He urged the participants to showcase their best performance with a sportsman spirit, going beyond the mindset of winning or losing.
On this occasion, he stated that the late Veerabhadra Singh dedicated his entire life to the development of the state. His contributions to the state’s progress will always be remembered. He expressed that such sports events would not only provide a platform for the budding boxing players of the state but also attract other youth towards the sport. He emphasized that boxing is a game that requires both physical and mental strength along with skill.
The Governor mentioned that in this era of mobile and internet dominance, there has been a decline in daily physical activities and an increase in sedentary lifestyles, causing a stagnation in physical activities in society. Promoting sports activities not only helps keep the youth away from addiction but also aids in the campaign against drugs and other harmful substances. He stressed the need for a collective effort from every section and community of society in this campaign.
Shukla stated that Indian athletes have brought laurels to the country at the international level with the encouragement and continuous inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Various schemes are being implemented to enhance sports facilities for athletes at the grassroots level. He also appreciated the commendable efforts being made for the development of sports in the state.
The Governor witnessed the first match of the boxing tournament organized between Vietnamese and Punjabi boxers. He honored the winning Punjabi team’s champion, Lovepreet Singh. In this competition, Indian medalist Saksham Thakur, along with boxers from Russia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and South Korea, also participated. On this occasion, the Himachal Police Orchestra ‘Harmony of the Pines’ presented a performance based on patriotism.
During this event, Lok Nirman and Youth Services Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Congress State President Pratibha Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mohan Lal Brakta, MLA Indra Dutt Lakhanpal, and Harish Janartha, Deputy Mayor of the Municipal Corporation, Uma Kausal, Pro-Boxing Association Himachal Pradesh President Mohinder Singh Satyan, senior officials, and other dignitaries were present.
