Shimla (Kameshwar Sharma): The Dhar Utsav Volleyball Tournament concluded on Sunday in Gram Panchayat Dhar under Jubbal Sub-Division. Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Rohit Thakur attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest. During the event, he praised the organizers and highlighted the importance of sports in shaping a healthy and disciplined society.
The Dhar Utsav Volleyball Tournament, organized by Nav Yuvak Mandal Dhar, brought together local volleyball teams and encouraged youth participation in sports. The minister congratulated the organizers for successfully conducting the rural-level competition and appreciated the players for their outstanding performances.
Sports Build Character and Keep Youth Away from Drugs
While addressing the gathering, Rohit Thakur described sports as more than just a source of entertainment. He explained that sports help develop discipline, leadership, teamwork, and self-confidence among young people.
Moreover, he expressed concern over the growing problem of drug abuse in society. He urged every section of society to work together to tackle this challenge. According to him, sports provide a positive direction to young people and play a vital role in keeping them away from drugs and other social evils.
Therefore, he encouraged youth to actively participate in sporting activities and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Government Strengthens Sports Infrastructure
The Education Minister said the state government is continuously improving sports infrastructure across Himachal Pradesh. In addition, it is providing better facilities and incentives to athletes.
He announced that the government has increased players’ diet allowance from ₹120 to ₹220 per day. Furthermore, the government has introduced special recognition for athletes who perform exceptionally at national and international competitions.
These measures, he said, will motivate more young players to excel in sports.
Jubbal Sports Hostel Producing National Talent
Rohit Thakur praised the Thakur Ramlal Government Girls Sports School for training students in seven sports, including volleyball.
He also informed the audience that the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has approved 32 new posts to ensure the smooth functioning of the sports hostel.
Currently, Himachal Pradesh operates 11 sports hostels, with the Jubbal Girls Sports Hostel being the largest. The hostel offers modern training facilities in volleyball, kabaddi, badminton, and several other sports.
The minister proudly announced that two students from the hostel have been selected for the Indian girls’ volleyball team for the World School Volleyball Championship 2026 in China. He described their selection as a proud moment for the entire region.
Development Projects Continue Across Jubbal
Apart from sports, Rohit Thakur highlighted several development projects in the Jubbal-Nawar-Kotkhai Assembly constituency.
He said the region has witnessed rapid development over the past three years. As part of these efforts, construction of a community hall worth nearly ₹50 lakh is underway in Gram Panchayat Dhar.
Additionally, the government has approved or constructed 181 new roads, significantly improving road connectivity in the constituency.
Education Sector Receives Major Boost
The minister also spoke about improvements in the education sector. He said Himachal Pradesh has secured better rankings in various education surveys conducted by the Central Government.
He noted that approval for a Kendriya Vidyalaya in Kotkhai is a major achievement. The government has already released ₹30 crore for its construction.
Furthermore, nearly 9,000 teachers have been appointed across different categories in the state. Recruitment for another 3,000 teaching posts is currently in progress.
₹50,000 Support for Nav Yuvak Mandal Dhar
During the closing Dhar Utsav Volleyball Tournament ceremony, Rohit Thakur thanked the public for supporting development-focused politics during the recently concluded Panchayati Raj elections.
Finally, he announced a grant of ₹50,000 for Nav Yuvak Mandal Dhar to encourage the organization to continue promoting sports and youth activities in the region.
The event was attended by local elected representatives, government officials, members of Nav Yuvak Mandal Dhar, and a large number of residents.
Key Highlights of the news:
- Dhar Utsav Volleyball Tournament concluded in Jubbal with Education Minister Rohit Thakur as chief guest.
- The minister said sports help youth develop discipline and stay away from drug abuse.
- Himachal increased athletes’ diet allowance from ₹120 to ₹220.
- Two Jubbal girls were selected for the World School Volleyball Championship 2026 in China.
- Rohit Thakur announced ₹50,000 for Nav Yuvak Mandal Dhar and highlighted major education and infrastructure projects.
