Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur inaugurated an awareness run in Hamirpur on Tuesday to mark International Olympic Week, calling on youth to embrace sports and an active lifestyle for healthy living. He emphasized that good health leads to prosperity and growth in life.
Event Highlights and Participation
The awareness run began from the synthetic track of Government Degree College and concluded at Hira Nagar. People from various age groups participated in the event, which was dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle, goodwill, social unity, and the ‘Fit India Movement’. Thakur, who also serves as president of the Himachal Pradesh Olympic Association, led the initiative.
Importance of Physical Fitness
Thakur stressed that physical fitness has become more important than ever in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven lifestyle. He stated that a healthy body forms the foundation of a healthy society and a strong nation. He urged that if the country aims to shape future generations into drug-free, disciplined, self-confident, and energetic individuals, sports and regular physical activity must become an integral part of daily life.
Government Initiatives and Investment
Thakur noted that India is moving forward in sports with renewed confidence under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He said, “Today, India is moving forward in the field of sports with renewed confidence. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sports have, for the first time, been prioritised as a crucial medium for national development and youth empowerment.” He highlighted initiatives such as Khelo India, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), expansion of sports infrastructure, and modern training facilities that have given a new direction to the country’s sports culture.
Thakur added that till 2024, nearly Rs 3,000 crore had been invested in more than 300 sports infrastructure projects under Khelo India, providing better opportunities for sporting talent across the nation.
Call to Youth
Urging youth to prioritise fitness, Thakur said every young person should dedicate some time daily to running, yoga, exercise, or any form of sport. “A fit youth is the greatest strength of a capable society and a developed India. Fitness is not a one-day campaign but a habit that should be embraced for a lifetime,” he said.
Dignitaries Present
MLA Ashish Sharma, former MLAs Urmil Thakur, Kamlesh Kumari, and Rajinder Rana, along with members of the district BJP unit, were also present on the occasion.
