Forest Sports Competition: Over 3,300 Athletes, 700 Women Participants — CM Dhami Extends Best Wishes
Forest Sports and Green Games Make Uttarakhand a National Symbol of Fitness and Green Awareness
Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday said that Uttarakhand has established itself as a pioneer in both sports promotion and environmental protection, setting a benchmark for the rest of the nation. He was addressing the gathering as the chief guest at the 28th All India Forest Sports and Cultural Competition 2025, held at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Raipur, Dehradun.
The event witnessed the presence of Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal, Rajya Sabha MPs Naresh Bansal and Kalpana Saini, MLAs Umesh Sharma ‘Kau’, Khajan Das, Savita Kapoor, Principal Secretary RK Sudhanshu, and senior officials from the Forest Department, among other dignitaries.
Welcoming Forest Officials and Athletes to Devbhoomi
Extending a warm welcome to the athletes and forest officials from across India, the Chief Minister said it was a matter of great pride that Uttarakhand has been chosen to host the 28th edition of the competition.
He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Forest and Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav for their guidance and support in organizing this prestigious national event, while congratulating the Uttarakhand Forest Department for its efforts.
3,390 Athletes, 42 Teams, and 700 Women Participants
Highlighting the massive participation this year, CM Dhami informed that 3,390 athletes from 42 states and Union Territories—including over 700 women participants—are competing in this year’s event.
He said, “Sports are not just a medium of physical fitness, but also a powerful means for personality development and nation-building.”
Commitment to Sports and Environment
CM Dhami emphasized that sports and environmental protection are both integral to Uttarakhand’s development vision. “Sports build discipline, teamwork, and a spirit of resilience. For our forest personnel, fitness is crucial, as they are the real guardians of our forests and wildlife,” he added.
He reiterated that the State Government is working continuously to promote a strong sports culture while also preserving and expanding the state’s rich forest resources.
Developing a Sports Legacy: Academies and Rewards for Athletes
The Chief Minister shared that 23 sports academies, a State Sports University, and a Women’s Sports College are being established in eight cities across the state to nurture young sporting talent.
He added, “Our government provides out-of-turn appointments to athletes who win medals at national and international levels and also offers an honorarium of ₹50 lakh to outstanding sportspersons.”
He cited the recent ₹50 lakh reward announced for Sneh Rana, Uttarakhand’s own star and a member of India’s World Cup-winning women’s cricket team, as an example of the government’s commitment to encouraging talent.
Green Games and the Sports Forest: A Model for Eco-Conscious Events
Highlighting Uttarakhand’s eco-friendly initiatives, the Chief Minister said that the 38th National Games, hosted recently by the state, were organized under the theme of “Green Games”, using materials made from e-waste and recycled products.
He informed that a “Sports Forest” has been developed over 2.77 hectares, where 1,600 Rudraksh trees have been planted in honor of medal-winning athletes. “This unique initiative blends sporting excellence with green consciousness,” he noted.
Technology-Driven Wildlife Conservation
Underscoring the state’s ecological wealth, CM Dhami said that 71% of Uttarakhand’s geographical area is forested, making it the country’s true ‘Oxygen Bank’ and ‘Water Tower’. The state houses six national parks, seven wildlife sanctuaries, and four conservation reserves—well above the national average.
He added that modern technologies such as GPS tracking, drone surveillance, and specialized dog squads are being deployed for wildlife protection.
The compensation for human-wildlife conflict victims has also been increased from ₹6 lakh to ₹10 lakh, he announced.
CM Young Eco-Preneur Scheme and Eco-Tourism Boost
Talking about eco-friendly entrepreneurship, CM Dhami said that under the “CM Young Eco-Preneur Scheme”, Uttarakhand’s youth are being trained as nature guides, drone pilots, wildlife photographers, trekking guides, and eco-tourism entrepreneurs.
He mentioned that initiatives like “Canter Ride” are empowering local communities by linking them to wildlife conservation and tourism-based livelihoods.
A modern wildlife rescue center, dubbed as the “AIIMS of Wildlife,” has also been set up in Corbett.
Seeking the Union Ministry’s cooperation, the Chief Minister requested early approval for the Haldwani Zoo Safari Project and the proposed Snow Leopard Conservation Center in Uttarkashi, calling them vital for both tourism development and wildlife conservation.
‘One Tree in the Name of Mother’ – An Emotional Appeal
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘One Tree in the Name of Mother’ campaign, CM Dhami appealed to the athletes and officials:
“Plant a tree in your mother’s name in this stadium complex. It will be a living tribute of love and respect for your mother and a reminder of your contribution to a greener Earth.”
Uttarakhand: The Torchbearer of a Green and Fit India
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that forest officers and athletes from across the country will uphold both sportsmanship and environmental values, helping to build a green, healthy, and strong Uttarakhand.
“Through your hard work and dedication, you are not only bringing laurels to the state but also creating a legacy for future generations — a legacy of fitness, sustainability, and national pride,” CM Dhami said.
