Shimla, June 21 (IANS) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Sunday presided over a state-level programme to mark the International Yoga Day in the state’s Hamirpur district.

The Chief Minister practised yoga for about 45 minutes along with nearly 2,000 participants, including senior citizens, youth, and children.

Earlier, Sukhu inaugurated the yoga session, organised by the Department of Ayush at the Synthetic Track Ground of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) at Anu, by lighting a ceremonial lamp and offering prayers to Lord Dhanvantari.

He also released a booklet related to the International Day of Yoga. The booklet contains a concise compilation of important information about various yoga postures and practices.

After the yoga session, the Chief Minister interacted with young trainees and athletes. He said the government was committed to providing world-class facilities to talented athletes.

A modern indoor stadium was being constructed in Nadaun at a cost of approximately Rs 125 crore. The stadium would be dedicated to the state’s athletes later this year. It would offer international-standard facilities for 14 sports, including swimming, badminton, volleyball, and tennis. He said the government has introduced substantial cash rewards for medal winners in international competitions. Gold medalists at the Asian Games will receive Rs 3 crore, silver medalists Rs 2 crore and bronze medalists up to Rs 1.5 crore.

Similarly, athletes who perform exceptionally well at the Olympic Games and other international competitions are also being awarded cash prizes worth crores of rupees. He said, soon after assuming office three and a half years ago, the government significantly increased the diet allowance for athletes. Provisions have also been made for athletes to travel by air and in air-conditioned trains. The Chief Minister added that adequate budgetary provisions were being made for the repair and renovation of the synthetic track ground at Anu.

–IANS

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