Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here today launched the official website of Paragliding World Cup 2024 being organized at Bir Billing in Kangra district from 2nd November to 9th November this year. The website will contain all information related to the World Cup.
Chief Minister said that this World Cup would be organized by the Billing Paragliding Association in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Government. He said that it was a matter of great pleasure that such a prestigious International event was being organized in the State which would go a long way in boosting the tourism activities.
Sh. Sukhu said that 130 pilots from about 50 countries are expected to compete in one of the most challenging and exhilarating environments for cross-country at the picturesque location of Bir Billing, the world’s best paragliding site. He said that this global event, set against the majestic backdrop of the Dhauladhar Mountain range in Himachal Pradesh, promises an exhilarating experience for both participants and spectators.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s dedication to boosting adventure tourism in the region. “Himachal Pradesh, with its stunning landscapes and favourable weather conditions, is a natural heaven for paragliding enthusiasts. The present State Government is committed to provide all necessary support to ensure that paragliding events are safe and well-organized” remarked Sh. Sukhu.
The Chief Minister said that the Himachal Paragliding Festival would also be organized to showcase India’s cultural arts, adventure sports, wellness, literature, and entertainment during the event. He said that the Government has also announced various initiatives under the same to promote ‘Women in Paragliding’ and to highlight India’s sportsmanship and cultural arts at a world-class opening and closing ceremony for the event.
The Chief Minister said that the State Government was giving top priority to tourism development which can play a pivotal role in strengthening the economy of the State. He said that Kangra district has been declared as ‘Tourism Capital’ of the State and basic infrastructure was being created to make an exhilarating experience for the visitors.
Heliports would be constructed in every district headquarters of the State to ensure better air connectivity. The construction work on five heliports has been started and the Sanjauli heliport would be made functional to ensure better air connectivity to Shimla, he stated. Apart from this, water tourism activities would be started at Govindsagar reservoir in Bilaspur district and Andhroli in Una. He said that to promote tourism activities in Pong Dam, hot air ballooning would be given a boost so that the economy of local people could be bolstered. A decision has been taken to open of shops for 24 hours during tourism peak season, he said.
The President of the Billing Paragliding Association Anurag Sharma said that the Paragliding World Cup at Bir Billing would not only highlight the extraordinary talent of the paragliders but also showcase the stunning beauty and adventure opportunities in Kangra region at the International forum.
MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Principal Advisor IT and Innovative to Chief Minister Gokul Butail, OSD to Chief Minister Ritesh Kapret, besides the President PWCA and Meet Director for the Paragliding World Cup Goran Dimishkovski were virtually present on the occasion.
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