International Boxing Championship Opens in Shimla, Marking a Major Step Toward a Drug-Free Himachal Through Sport

Shimla, 23 June:
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today inaugurated an international boxing championship on Shimla’s iconic Ridge, organised by the Himachal Pradesh Professional Boxing Association under the theme “Quit Drugs—Play Sports.”

Extending his best wishes to the organisers, the Governor said staging the event in memory of six-time Chief Minister Raja Virbhadra Singh is a fitting tribute to a visionary leader whose life of foresight and dedication will continue to inspire generations of Himachalis. Singh, he noted, was a towering figure in state politics and made an invaluable contribution to Himachal’s all-round development.

The Governor welcomed the participation of athletes from India and abroad, observing that sport is an integral part of life and fosters global goodwill and dialogue. He urged young people to make sport a daily habit, emphasising that it builds both physical fitness and mental strength—cornerstones of a strong nation.

Playing sport, he added, keeps youth away from vices such as substance abuse. By channelling their energy positively, young people move forward with purpose and lead disciplined, fulfilling lives.

Expressing concern over rising drug use in the state, the Governor called for collective introspection to ensure that the “Dev Bhoomi” does not become known for addiction. Protecting Himachal from this scourge, he said, requires a united effort. He also commended Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh for championing initiatives that raise awareness against narcotics.

Earlier, the Governor watched an exciting bout between Indian and Russian boxers.

Mohinder Stane, president of the Himachal Pradesh Professional Boxing Association, welcomed the Governor and thanked him for his support.

Among the dignitaries present were newly appointed Jharkhand High Court Chief Justice Justice Tarlok Chauhan; Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Ajay Mohan Goel; Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh; MLAs Nand Lal and Harish Janartha; Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan; Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena; Governor’s Secretary Chandra Prakash Verma; and Association Secretary Yadupati Thakur, along with many other distinguished guests.