Khelo Himachal event to cost Rs 22.5 crore

The Himachal Pradesh government will launch its state-level sports initiative, Khelo Himachal, on November 20 in Dharamshala, with an estimated expenditure of Rs 22.5 crore. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is scheduled to inaugurate the event, which aims to identify and promote sporting talent across rural and urban areas through competitions from block to state levels.

Youth Services and Sports Minister Yadvinder Goma said the Sports Department had begun preparations for the event on the Chief Minister’s directions. Initially planned with three sports disciplines, the competition will now feature six, following instructions from the Chief Minister. The names of the disciplines will be finalised shortly.

Competitions will be held at block, sub-division, zonal, district and state levels. Online team registration has started through the Sports Department’s website, with the current registration category covering participants aged 18 to 35 years.

Goma said prize money would be awarded to winners at different levels. The opening ceremony is planned to feature a drone show, laser show and cultural performances, including selected presentations from different districts and a star performer. Three to four event management companies have submitted presentations, and the contract will be awarded to the company selected for the best presentation.

The initial budget proposal was around Rs 16 crore, but the estimated expenditure has increased to Rs 22.5 crore due to higher prize money and an expanded opening ceremony. The government aims to complete the competition within four to six months, with its conclusion planned for late February or March. Date may change due to recruitment, Assembly session

Goma said November 20 coincides with the proposed winter session of the Assembly and the police recruitment process. The department will discuss the schedule with officials to avoid inconvenience to candidates and participants due to crowds and VIP movement in Dharamshala. The final decision on the date will rest with the Chief Minister.

The opening ceremony is proposed to be held at the HPCA Stadium. The organisers are also planning a ceremonial torch-lighting event.

Doping tests to monitor players

The Sports Minister said district sports officers would be assigned to monitor participants. Players found to have consumed prohibited substances would face action, and doping tests would also be conducted during the competition.

The venues and match schedules for cricket and other disciplines will be decided after the opening ceremony. The detailed schedule will be released subsequently.