Himachal Pradesh is fast emerging as ‘Khel Bhoomi’, a rising land of sporting excellence. Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state is undergoing a significant transformation into a hub for sports development. With a bold vision and focused execution, Himachal is laying the groundwork for a new identity — one that champions youth, talent, and inclusive sports culture.
At the center of this transformation is the construction of a world-class multi-purpose sports complex in Kharedi, Nadaun (district Hamirpur). With an investment of ₹65 crore, the facility will feature modern infrastructure, including an eight-lane swimming pool, shooting range, wrestling and boxing arenas, dedicated centres for Kabaddi, Yoga, and facilities for table tennis and badminton. This landmark project aims to nurture emerging talent and provide a platform for high-level training and competition.
In a first-of-its-kind policy decision, the government has mandated that participation certificates or official letters issued by recognized sports bodies will now be accepted as valid proof of participation in national or state-level sports events. Schools have been instructed to mark such students on ‘special leave’ rather than showing them absent — a provision already followed in SGFI (School Games Federation of India) competitions. This change ensures that participation in sports does not affect academic records or internal assessments, encouraging students to actively balance academics with athletics.
In the current financial year, the state government has planned the establishment of a 100-bed sports hostel in Luhnu, Bilaspur. Simultaneously, the Rajiv Gandhi Multi-Purpose Stadium in Katasani, Shimla, is being upgraded with modern facilities. Indoor stadiums are under construction in Solan, and new infrastructure is being developed in Reckong Peo, Haroli, and Jaisinghpur. Additionally, synthetic tracks and field facilities are being created in Hamirpur and Sujanpur to provide athletes with world-class training environments.
Understanding the critical role of nutrition in athletic performance, the government has significantly increased daily diet allowances for sportspersons. Players at the primary education level now receive ₹250 per day for competitions within the state, while others receive ₹400. For out-of-state competitions, the allowance is ₹500 per day. Athletes residing in sports hostels are also supported with ₹250 (within the state) and ₹400 (outside the state) per day.
So far, ₹76.98 lakh has been disbursed to 421 athletes as diet money, and ₹6.01 lakh has been provided to 235 athletes for travel expenses. These measures underscore the government’s commitment to supporting athletes throughout their journey — not just after their success, but during their training and development as well.
Himachali athletes have consistently brought glory to the state at both national and international levels. In recognition of their achievements, the government has substantially increased cash rewards. So far, ₹14.77 crore has been awarded to 21 international medal winners, while ₹44 lakh has been given to other top-performing athletes. This initiative reflects the government’s resolve to honor, celebrate, and motivate sporting talent in the state.
Sukhu has reiterated that Himachal Pradesh is not just building stadiums — it is preparing champions. With a holistic strategy focused on infrastructure development, athlete welfare, financial incentives, and inclusive policy reforms, the state is redefining itself as a progressive and dynamic centre of sporting excellence in India.
