Governor Bandaru Dattatraya today opened the T-20 cricket match played between Governor-XI and Press-XI at BCS, School Shimla. The match was organized by the Himachal Pradesh Sports and Anti Drugs Association.Speaking on the occasion, the Governor appreciated the efforts of the Association for organizing such events which not only help in maintaining physical fitness but also go a long way in promoting the sports and building the bonds of brotherhood. Shri Dattatraya said good routine, a healthy diet and physical exercise not only help in living a healthy life but also play an important role in bringing positive attitudes in one's personality. He added that positivity dwells in a healthy mind whereas negativity invites various diseases.He hoped that the association would also organize such events throughout the state which would go a long way in promoting sports activities in the state.The Governor said that he himself had been a cricketer and has a great liking for sports. He said that defeat and victory are a part of a game, but it is important to play it with sportsman spirit. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched the Swachhta Abhiyan for Swachh Bharat and it was successfully implemented across the nation.
At the same time, he has recently proclaimed Fit India, Hit India in the form of slogan for giving importance to fitness, which means when we are fit we are hit everywhere. He expressed happiness that in pursuing the same spirit, the Chief Minister has also given a message to the people of the state with an important slogan “Fit Himachal, Drug-Free Himachal”.The Governor enjoyed batting and Dr. Srikanth Baldi bowled to him. He spends the full time and watched the match played between the two teams.Earlier, President, Himachal Pradesh Sports & Anti Drugs Association Baldev Tomar welcomed and honoured the Governor on the occasion and said the Association was organizing these events to promote social activities besides inculcating the spirit of sport among the youth. He added that the Association was organizing a strong campaign against drugs and the match was part of the same campaign. He also thanked BCS school administration for providing a stadium for cricket matches.He also introduced the players of both the teams to the Governor. The Governor also tossed the coin. Press-XI won the toss and decided to bat first.Dr. Srikant Baldi captained the Governor-XI team while Anil Bhardwaj led the Press-XI.Mayor, Municipal Corporation Shimla Kusum Sadret, Headmaster Roy Christopher Robinson, and other senior officers of the State government were also present on the occasion.