SHIMLA:  HP Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla urged the youth to take part in sports and join fight against drug abuse in the state. 

He said this while a delegation of Him Sports and Cultural Association, Shimla led by its President called on him at Raj Bhawan today. 

Association invited the Governor as the Chief Guest in the inauguration of the cricket tournament being organized by the Association in Shimla from June 10 this year.

 The Governor congratulated the Association for organizing the sports event. 

He said that such efforts could definitely prove effective in connecting the youth with the society and against evils like drug abuse. 

He said that today there was a need to encourage youth towards sports and such events are positive steps in this direction.  He said that today there was a need to encourage sports in a big way.

 On the occasion, Principal Advisor (Media) to the Chief Minister, Naresh Chauhan apprised the Governor that the Him Sports and Cultural Association organize cricket and other cultural activities every year. 

He said that the purpose of organizing such events was to promote sports among the youth and to involve them in constructive and positive activities. 

He said that organization of such competitions strengthen their physical and mental abilities.

He said that four teams would participate in the competition, which includes Governor-XI, Chief Minister-XI, Chief Justice-XI and Journalist-XI.

General Secretary of the Association Hardayal Bhardwaj was also present on the occasion