In a progressive push to redefine the role of sports in shaping well-rounded individuals, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced a series of impactful reforms that place equal emphasis on academics and athletics. In a landmark decision, the state government has issued directives to educational institutions across Himachal to recognize the presence of students representing India at national and international sporting events. These students will now be marked under ‘special leave’ rather than absent, a move that seeks to balance the demands of high-level sport with academic responsibility.
The Chief Minister highlighted that previously, students participating in competitions under various sports federations were penalized with absentee marks, adversely affecting their attendance and internal assessments. By allowing participation certificates from recognized sports bodies to serve as valid proof of official representation, the government is setting a precedent in inclusive educational policy. This policy, being implemented for the first time in the state, mirrors the existing recognition framework for School Games Federation of India (SGFI) participants and expands it to a wider array of sporting associations.
This initiative, CM Sukhu emphasized, reflects a deeper commitment to nurturing student-athletes who are not just physically competent but academically responsible. The approach marks a clear shift towards a holistic development model where sports and academics are no longer seen in opposition but as complementary forces that shape a student’s journey. “Our aim is to create an environment where talent doesn’t have to choose between the classroom and the competition arena,” he stated.
In a parallel stride that underscores the government’s dedication to celebrating excellence in sports, Himachal Pradesh has also delivered a record financial incentive package to its top-performing athletes. In a historic ceremony, 21 international medalists were awarded cash prizes totaling ₹14.77 crore—by far the highest sports prize disbursal in the state’s history. This transformative gesture signals a new era in which athletic success is not just acknowledged, but rewarded with real material support.
Among the notable recipients was Paralympian Nishad Kumar from Una, who was awarded ₹7.80 crore for his stellar performances in high jump, including a medal at the Tokyo Paralympics. Another para-athlete, Ajay Kumar from Mandi, received ₹2.50 crore for his feat in the 400-meter race. Weightlifter Vikas Thakur from Hamirpur was honored with ₹2 crore, while kabaddi stars like Ritu Negi, Pushpa, Sushma Sharma, and others were each awarded ₹33.32 lakh for their international triumphs. Renowned cricketer Renuka Singh Thakur from Shimla received ₹13.32 lakh for her consistent excellence on the field. Smaller but meaningful rewards amounting to ₹44 lakh were also distributed among emerging talents across diverse sports, ensuring no discipline is overlooked.
The government’s involvement goes well beyond awarding cash. A focused investment in athlete welfare has led to the disbursal of ₹76.98 lakh in diet allowances to 421 players and ₹6.01 lakh for travel support to 235 athletes. These steps reflect a system designed not only to reward success but to support the entire journey—providing assistance from grassroots participation to global competition.
Recognizing the need for top-tier infrastructure, the state is currently constructing an international-level sports stadium in Nadaun, Hamirpur. Once completed, this facility is expected to become a hub of training and development, equipping Himachali athletes with the resources to compete at the highest levels of sport.
Chief Minister Sukhu reiterated that the government is resolutely committed to making sports a priority, not merely a passion. The integration of academic and athletic calendars, recognition of participation as official presence, and record financial awards are all facets of a larger vision where young sportspersons from the state are empowered, not restricted, by their ambitions. “These young athletes are not just champions on the field but are students with aspirations beyond sports. It is our duty to ensure they are celebrated, supported, and provided with equal opportunities,” he affirmed.
With its latest measures, Himachal Pradesh is making it clear that it is not only committed to producing medal-winning athletes but is also invested in shaping a future where talent, hard work, and education walk side by side. The state’s evolving sports ecosystem, backed by robust policy and financial backing, positions it as a rising force on the national and international stage in the years to come.
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