Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 24 (ANI): The North Indian hill state of Himachal Pradesh is gearing up to host the prestigious Paragliding World Cup India 2024, scheduled from November 2 to 9 in the Bir Billing Valley of the Kangra district.
This event, endorsed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s administration, marks a significant effort to enhance tourism prospects in the region.
Organised by the Billing Paragliding Association in partnership with Being Creative and supported by Himachal Tourism, the World Cup is anticipated to attract participants and spectators from over 40 countries. Participants, selected based on global and national rankings, will compete in cross-country tasks covering distances of 100 to 200 kilometres daily.
While addressing the media in Shimla on Wednesday after the launch of the event’s official website, which will contain all information related to the World Cup, the Chief Minister said, “Bir-Billing in the Kangra Valley is considered the best paragliding adventure destination in the world. The Paragliding World Cup will be organised in a big way this November, with participants from 40 to 45 countries taking part.”
He added, “Tourism is the top priority of the government to make Himachal Pradesh a self-reliant state.”
“We have identified various sectors to contribute to the economy. We have decided to make Kangra the tourism capital of the state, with hydro and renewable energy as the second and third priorities, respectively. It is a proud moment for us that 40 to 45 countries will participate in this Paragliding World Cup held in Bir Billing between November 2 and 9. Bir Billing is considered the best paragliding adventure destination in the world. I would like to thank Anurag Sharma, the spokesperson of the Paragliding Association, for this,” CM Sukhu said.
Sukhu also mentioned 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.
Sukhu added that the Himachal Paragliding Festival would also be organised to showcase India’s cultural arts, adventure sports, wellness, literature, and entertainment during the event. The government has announced various initiatives under this event to promote ‘Women in Paragliding’ and to highlight India’s sportsmanship and cultural arts at a world-class opening and closing ceremony.
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasised the multifaceted benefits of hosting such a global event. “The Paragliding World Cup India 2024 not only showcases Himachal’s adventurous spirit but also boosts our economy through increased tourism and employment opportunities,” he stated while addressing the media during the launch of the event’s official website in Shimla on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Anurag Sharma, President of the Billing Paragliding Association, highlighted the event’s significance, which was accredited by the Paragliding World Cup Association and recognised by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI). “This World Cup underscores Himachal Pradesh’s emergence as a premier adventure sports destination,” Sharma said, emphasising the event’s alignment with the state’s tourism goals.
Sharma mentioned that the safety measures include the deployment of helicopters and ground rescue teams across strategic locations, ensuring swift response capabilities. Cultural evenings and various adventure sports performances are also planned, offering visitors a comprehensive experience. (ANI)
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