Chandigarh Honors 647 Sportspersons with Rs 2.56 Crore Scholarship Awards
In a significant boost to local athletic talent, the Chandigarh Sports Department has awarded scholarships worth Rs 2.56 crore to 647 sportspersons from the Union Territory. The ceremony, held on Wednesday, recognized players who excelled in inter-school tournaments, bringing accolades to Chandigarh.
Scholarship Distribution Under New Sports Policy
The scholarships were distributed by Gulab Chand Kataria, Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, alongside Prerna Puri, Secretary of Sports, Chandigarh. According to the newly implemented Chandigarh Sports Policy, each player received a scholarship prize of Rs 48,000. This initiative aims to financially support young athletes and encourage their continued participation in sports.
During the event, Prerna Puri provided an overview of the ongoing development of sports infrastructure and the promotion of sporting activities in Chandigarh. She highlighted the UT's commitment to nurturing talent through enhanced facilities and programs.
Governor Lauds Achievements and Dedication
In his address, Gulab Chand Kataria congratulated the sportspersons and their parents, emphasizing the importance of sports in personal and community development. He particularly praised the achievements of specially-abled players who have won medals for Chandigarh in various paralympic events, showcasing the city's inclusive approach to sports.
Kataria also commended the dedication of coaches for their crucial role in training and mentoring young athletes. He noted that Chandigarh's annual expenditure of approximately Rs 28 crore for honoring sportspersons is among the highest in the country, reflecting the UT's strong investment in sports excellence.
Key Officials Present at the Ceremony
The ceremony was attended by several prominent officials, including:
- Sorabh Arora, Sports Director of Chandigarh
- Sanjay Tondon, Chairman of the Sports Advisory Council
- Nitish Singla, Director of School Education
- Mahender Singh, Joint Director of Sports
Their presence underscored the collaborative effort between various departments to support and uplift the sports community in Chandigarh.
This scholarship distribution marks a pivotal step in Chandigarh's sports promotion strategy, aiming to inspire future generations of athletes and strengthen the city's reputation as a hub for sporting talent in India.
