Mandi: While inaugurating 22nd Sub-Junior National Wushu Championship 2022 at Paddal Sports Stadium in Mandi organized jointly by Wushu Association of India and Himachal Pradesh Wushu Association, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar stressed the need to promote Wushu sport in a big way. Besides improving physical ability, this game was also helpful in developing a sense of discipline, he added.
Arlekar said that the talents of juniors were really inspiring. He said that there were many problems in the society due to lack of discipline but the discipline shown by these players were inspiring. “There are many problems in society and I have seen the solution in the Wushu game. We need to learn this art and sport for the sake of society and self discipline. The game should not be considered as a game but a necessity”, said the Governor.
He appreciated the efforts of the Wushu Association of India and the State Wushu Association and expressed satisfaction that the young generation of the State was adopting this game and participating in the championship in a big number. Together it needs to be promoted further, he added and said that the Union Government was trying to include Wushu sport in the Olympic Games also. He formally announced the opening of this Championship wherein 1300 players from 33 states and union territories are participating in the five day championship.
Welcoming all the Wushu players from across the country to Himachal, Dr. Malika Nadda, President, Special Olympics India said that few people were aware about this sport but in the present context, the future generation should be taught this art. The game has given four Arjuna Awardees and one Dronacharya Awardee to the country, she added. Expressing contentment, she said that sport was being promoted in a big way at the State and country level and was also being encouraged through ‘Khelo India’.
Dr. Nadda said that players who participate in Special and Paralympics at state, national and international level were being given incentive. She urged the State Government to construct a stadium for the players of Special and Paralympic so that they could get proper place to sharpen their talent.
Earlier, on reaching Paddal Maidan, the Governor was honored by the Wushu Association of India by presenting a turban. The Governor hoisted the flag of the game. The Governor also enjoyed demo fights on the occasion. Wushu award winning players of the country of different age groups demonstrated their performance on the occasion.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner and Chairman, Organizing Committee Arindam Chaudhary honoured the Governor by presenting Himachali Cap and Shawl on the occasion. General Secretary HP Wushu Association P.N. Azad welcomed the Governor and briefed about the various activities of the Association and detailed about the championship on the occasion.
President Himachal Pradesh Wushu Association Shivpal Manhas proposed a vote of thanks. Chairman Zila Parishad Mandi Pal Verma, CEO Indian Wushu Association Suhel Ahamad, Coordinator North Zone Wushu Federation of India Sudershan, and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.