The future of sports in Himachal Pradesh hinges on more than just raw talent—it depends on access to quality training facilities and high-grade equipment. Unfortunately, the lack of proper infrastructure has forced many promising athletes to either quit early or migrate to other states in search of better opportunities.
Despite significant financial outlays, the availability of professional-level training centers in Himachal remains disappointingly low. To shape athletes capable of competing at national and international platforms, it is essential that schools and colleges provide robust sports facilities from an early stage. Around the world, top-performing nations invest heavily in sports infrastructure at the grassroots level—and India must do the same if it hopes to keep up.
Every year, crores of rupees are spent on purchasing sports equipment for educational institutions and youth services departments across Himachal Pradesh. However, reports indicate that a large portion of this gear—procured through centralized procurement platforms like GeM—tends to be of substandard quality. This chronic issue undermines the growth of budding athletes and calls for immediate corrective action.
Through this column, repeated appeals have been made to the state government to ensure the procurement of high-quality sports equipment. If the goal is to see Himachal’s athletes shine at the national and global levels, they must be equipped with the tools necessary for excellence.
The modern sports arena has evolved dramatically, demanding not only skilled players and seasoned coaches but also cutting-edge sports technology and advanced gear. Just as the medical field has embraced high-tech tools to fight diseases, the sports industry too relies on innovation—engineered equipment designed to enhance performance and prevent injuries.
As society becomes increasingly health-conscious, the role of sports in everyday life grows ever more important. A fit population requires active participation in physical activities, and this translates into a skyrocketing demand for sports equipment. With millions engaging in various forms of athletics, the need for durable, high-performance gear has never been more urgent.
Globally, sports have transformed into a multi-billion-dollar industry. Even in India, the sports equipment sector is witnessing exponential growth, contributing billions of rupees to the economy each year. To align Himachal Pradesh with this booming industry, the state must invest not only in its athletes but also in the quality of tools they train with.
In conclusion, if Himachal truly wants to nurture world-class talent, the state must move beyond token investments and prioritize quality over quantity in sports infrastructure. Subpar gear can no longer be the standard. The time has come to equip our athletes with the resources they deserve.