Grand U-21 Volleyball Championship and Mini Half Marathon Held in Shahpur
TNR News Network
Shahpur
Shahpur witnessed a vibrant celebration of youth and sports as the Himachal Pradesh State Volleyball Association organized the first U-21 Youth Volleyball Championship along with a Mini Half Marathon at Shahpur Ground. The event drew enthusiastic participation from young athletes, showcasing discipline, energy, and sportsmanship.
Member of Parliament from Hamirpur and former Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur graced the occasion as chief guest, while former minister and National Volleyball Association President Virender Kanwar attended as special guest.
In his address, Thakur urged youth to shun drugs and embrace sports as a powerful medium of personality development. “Those who sweat on the field shape the future of the state and the nation,” he said, encouraging young people to actively participate in sports and help make Himachal a leading state in athletics.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to sports, Thakur noted that India’s sports budget has risen from ₹800 crore in 2014 to ₹3,700 crore today under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He emphasized the need for strengthening sports infrastructure in Himachal and appointing more coaches across disciplines, especially as India prepares for the 2036 Olympics.
Virender Kanwar, in his remarks, said sports are not just about competition but about character-building. He praised the organizers for fostering a strong sports culture that steers youth away from social evils and towards positive growth.
The Mini Half Marathon saw massive participation, with Shahpur Ground echoing with cheers and applause. The U-21 Volleyball Championship also witnessed outstanding performances, earning appreciation from spectators.
District President Kamal Sharma expressed gratitude to the chief guest and dignitaries, reaffirming the association’s commitment to nurturing young talent and continuing such events in the future.
Several dignitaries, including MLA Thakur Ranbir Singh Nikka, former minister Sarveen Chaudhary, and district BJP leaders, were present at the event.
