The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to create new positions within the Sports Department for individuals who have achieved medals at international sporting events. This initiative aims to provide a direct pathway for elite athletes to contribute to the development of sports within the state, moving beyond traditional appointment routes.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the state government will establish the post of Additional District Sports Officer (ADSO) specifically for sportspersons who have won medals at international competitions. Previously, accomplished athletes were often offered appointments as Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) as a form of recognition for their achievements. The new policy is expected to leverage the experience and expertise of these athletes to foster young talent and strengthen the state’s overall sporting infrastructure.
Ace shooter Vijay Kumar, who secured a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics and earned four medals at the Asian Games, lauded the decision as a crucial step towards ensuring a secure future for sports and budding athletes in Himachal Pradesh. Kumar, who was previously appointed a DSP based on his sporting accomplishments, stated that filling vacancies within the Sports Department with accomplished sportspersons would be mutually beneficial for the athletes themselves and aspiring players. He expressed his belief that this move will significantly contribute to the production of high-calibre sportspersons in the future.
Sawan Barwal, a silver medalist in the marathon at the recent Asian Games, also expressed his approval of the new initiative. Barwal, who originates from Jogindernagar in Mandi district and is currently serving in the Indian Army in Dehradun, commented that the decision would enable athletes to serve the sporting community within their home state. He described the government’s decision as a positive development that offers sportspersons an opportunity to work in the field of sports in Himachal Pradesh.
Barwal further elaborated on the potential impact of experienced international athletes in guiding emerging players. He highlighted that athletes who have competed at the highest levels possess an intrinsic understanding of the dedication, rigorous preparation, and unwavering commitment required to excel in international tournaments. According to him, an athlete with a proven international track record is better equipped to mentor and motivate young athletes to achieve their best performances, thereby benefiting both Himachal Pradesh and the nation at large.
Pushpa Rana, the captain of the gold medal-winning kabaddi team at the Asian Games, welcomed the government’s move but advocated for appointments to be based strictly on merit and comprehensive achievements. Rana suggested that athletes with exceptional records, particularly those who have secured multiple international medals, should be considered for direct appointments as District Sports Officers (DSOs). She proposed that these top-tier athletes should not be limited to the position of Additional DSO but should be eligible for more senior roles commensurate with their achievements.
The proposed appointments aim to bridge the gap between experienced athletes and the sports administration, ensuring that the practical knowledge and competitive spirit of medal winners are integrated into the planning and execution of sports development programs. This policy shift reflects a growing recognition of the invaluable role that successful athletes can play in nurturing the next generation of sporting talent.
The state government’s proactive approach in creating dedicated roles for international medallists underscores a commitment to strengthening its sports ecosystem. By offering positions within the Sports Department, Himachal Pradesh seeks to retain its accomplished athletes and harness their unique insights for the betterment of sports at the grassroots and professional levels. The introduction of the ADSO post is seen as a significant step towards creating a more robust and athlete-centric approach to sports management in the state.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
