TEHRI GARHWAL: In a major boost to adventure sports in Uttarakhand, the International President Cup 2025 and the Fourth Tehri Water Sports Cup concluded with a grand closing ceremony at Tehri Lake on Sunday. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the event as the chief guest, interacting with players from across the world and congratulating them for their spirited performances.
Our correspondent reports that the event drew more than 300 athletes from 22 countries, making it one of the most significant international water sports gatherings ever hosted in the Himalayan region. The Chief Minister said the participation of so many countries demonstrated growing global confidence in Uttarakhand’s capabilities as a venue for world-class adventure sports.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Minister Dhami said, “Tehri Lake is now emerging as a global hub for adventure tourism and water sports. This platform will continue to give new opportunities to our youth and new direction to the state’s tourism economy.” He also congratulated organisers including THDC, the Asian Kayaking and Canoeing Association, and the Uttarakhand Olympic Association for conducting the tournament successfully.
Tehri Lake to Become International Adventure Sports Hub
The Chief Minister said that the event has further established Tehri Lake as a centre of world-level adventure activities. “Our objective is to ensure that such international sporting events are held here regularly. This will strengthen tourism, generate livelihood and inspire young players to take up water sports,” he said.
Our correspondent adds that the Chief Minister personally met athletes from India and abroad, encouraging them to continue competing with dedication and discipline. He said sports build physical strength, mental focus and essential life values such as teamwork, resilience and respect.
Uttarakhand’s Rising Sports Profile
During his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s growing reputation in national and international sports. He said the successful hosting of the 38th National Games, where Uttarakhand secured 103 medals and ranked 7th, has given the state a new identity as Khelbhoomi.
“The people of Uttarakhand are proud of our athletes. Winning 103 medals in the National Games is a historic achievement. We are continuously strengthening sports infrastructure so that Uttarakhand can host more international competitions in the future,” he said.
The Chief Minister mentioned that the Dehradun Sports Stadium recently hosted an international-level ice-skating competition, opening a new chapter for winter sports in India.
New Sports Academies and Training Infrastructure
The Chief Minister also announced major future initiatives under the Sports Legacy Plan, which will soon be implemented across the state. As part of the plan, 23 sports academies will be established in 8 major cities, providing advanced training to 920 international-level athletes every year.
He said the state is working rapidly to set up Uttarakhand’s first Sports University in Haldwani and a dedicated Women’s Sports College in Lohaghat. In addition, medal-winning athletes are being given government jobs, free sports training and performance-based scholarships.
“We have reintroduced the four percent sports quota in government services. Our policies are designed to ensure that athletes receive full encouragement and the right environment to excel,” the Chief Minister said.
India’s Sporting Growth Highlighted
The Chief Minister praised national sports initiatives such as the Khelo India and Fit India movements. He said India has made remarkable progress internationally, citing the country’s achievement of 107 medals at the 2023 Asian Games. He added that Ahmedabad is preparing to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, reflecting India’s growing stature as a global sporting nation.
Closing Ceremony and Felicitation
During the closing ceremony at Tehri Lake, the Chief Minister honoured the winning players and encouraged all participants to continue their sporting journey with determination. He said, “In sports, the greatest victory is sportsmanship. It is encouraging to see that every athlete has displayed commendable spirit throughout the competition.”
He added that both the Central and State governments are committed to providing athletes with modern facilities and full institutional support. “Our youth must keep working hard. With discipline and dedication, they will raise the tricolour higher on international platforms,” he said.
Senior officials, including Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal, MLA Kishore Upadhyay, district administrative officers, THDC CMD S K Garg, players from several countries and local residents attended the ceremony.
Swaroop covers local, national, and youth sports with a focus on athletes and sporting events from Uttarakhand and from everywhere else. He reports on cricket, football, athletics, and grassroots tournaments across the state. His coverage highlights sportsperson journeys, regional talent development, and the challenges facing sports infrastructure in the hills.
As the VUK Sports Correspondent he provides detailed coverage of sporting events across Uttarakhand, India, and the world. From local leagues to international championships, he highlights the performances, challenges, and spirit of athletes. Each report aims to capture not just the scores but also the stories behind the game. Readers can rely on consistent updates that bring the excitement of sports directly to them.
