In a thrilling conclusion to the 21st All India Dr. YS Parmar Memorial Volleyball Competition, the Indian Navy team claimed the championship title after overcoming the Indian Army with a score of 3-1 in the final match. The third position was secured by Uttarakhand, who triumphed in a closely contested match against Northern Railway.
Deputy Commissioner of Kangra, Hemraj Bairwa, was present to honor the winners, presenting them with trophies and cash prizes. The Indian Navy’s victory earned them a trophy along with a cash reward of ₹2 lakh. The Indian Army, finishing as runners-up, received ₹1 lakh, while Uttarakhand, taking third place, was awarded ₹75,000.
In his address at the event, Deputy Commissioner Bairwa extended his congratulations to all the players, highlighting the exceptional talent exhibited by athletes from around the nation. He remarked that high-profile competitions held in Panchrukhi not only inspire local youth but also create a vital platform for budding talent to thrive. Bairwa committed to organizing similar tournaments in the district in the future to foster a deeper interest in sports and assist in the development of athletes.
The Deputy Commissioner also outlined the government’s efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure, mentioning the ongoing construction of multi-purpose sports complexes in Jaisinghpur and Dehra within the Kangra district. He took the opportunity to spotlight the impressive accomplishments of athletes from Himachal Pradesh, both at national and international levels, emphasizing the state’s potential in the sports arena. Bairwa noted that this volleyball competition showcased several players from the region who exhibited remarkable skill and performance.
In a poignant moment, attendees paid tribute to Sanat Klette, a respected softball coach of the Youth Services and Sports Department, who recently passed away, acknowledging his contributions to the sport.
The event garnered attention from various dignitaries, including former Chief Parliamentary Secretary Jagjivan Paul and SDM Palampur Netra Meti, alongside sports department officials and players from multiple teams. This prestigious tournament serves as a testament to Himachal Pradesh’s dedication to promoting sports and cultivating opportunities for talented athletes to excel on a larger platform.
