Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated the International Pro-Boxing Tournament organized by the HP International Boxing Organization in memory of the former Chief Minister Late Virbhadra Singh on his birth anniversary here today.
Sh. Shukla said that Virbhadra Singh dedicated his entire life to the development and welfare of the state and its people. His contribution in making Himachal a prosperous and modern State will always be remembered.
Applauding the efforts of the organizers, the governor said that such sports events would provide a platform to the budding boxing players of the state. He urged the participants to give their best without the fear of outcome.
The Governor said that in this era of modern technology, mobiles and the Internet have overpowered the youth resulting in limiting physical activities. The youth should involve themselves in various sports activities to keep both mind and body in good health.
Besides, this will also help to keep the youth away from the use of drugs. Emphasizing the need to run a big campaign against the consumption of drugs and other intoxicants, he said that every section and community should come forward to fight against this menace.
Even the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has taken many initiatives to promote sports in a big way. He said that commendable efforts were being made for the development of sports in the state.
The Governor also watched the first match of the boxing tournament organized between the boxers of Vietnam and Punjab and felicitated the winner Lovepreet Singh of Punjab. Boxers from Russia, Vietnam, Philippines and South Korea, etc, including Khelo India gold medalist Saksham Thakur, participated in the competition.
Himachal Police Orchestra 'Harmony of the Pines' also performed on the occasion. Public Works and Youth Services and Sports Minister, Vikramaditya Singh while welcoming the Governor highlighted the contribution of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh in building modern Himachal. He said that the State Government was taking concrete steps to promote sports in Himachal Pradesh.
On this occasion, MP and State Congress President Pratibha Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mohan Lal Brakta, MLAs, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal and Harish Janartha, Deputy Mayor of Municipal Corporation Uma Kaushal, President of Pro Boxing Association Himachal Pradesh Mohinder Singh Sataan and other dignitaries were present amongst others.