Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today launched the official website and promo for the upcoming Pre-World Cup Paragliding competition, to be held from 26th October, 2023 at Bir-Billing in Kangra district.
Till date, around 159 participants from 28 countries have got themselves registered for the event being organized jointly by the Billing Paragliding Association and the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Para gliders from United States, Australia, New Zealand, France, Sweden, Germany, China, South Africa, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Kazakhstan, Norway, Nepal, Vietnam, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Canada, and the paragliding teams of Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy will be participating in the event and will be given ranking as per the International norms.
The event has received approval from both the Federation of Aeronautical International Paragliding World Cup Commission and Aero Club India, which serves as the paramount governing body for paragliding. As safety remains a top priority, two teams from the Army Adventure Wing and the Indian Air Force Adventure Wing, with dedicated rescue teams will be there to respond swiftly to any unforeseen emergencies. Besides, helicopters will also be available, further bolstering comprehensive safety measures.
The Chief Minister said that known as the 'Paragliding Capital of India', Bir-Billing has gained a global reputation in the world of paragliding. Apart from this the Bir-Billing is also famous for trekking, mountain biking, spiritual studies etc. This remarkable destination has long been an attraction for renowned Para gliders from around the globe, drawn by its breathtaking vistas and ideal flying conditions.
The government was committed to promote tourism in Kangra and wants to make Kangra district as Tourism Capital of the State said the Chief Minister, adding that the Pre-world Cup in which participants from 28 countries were participating will certainly augment the Government's resolve in promotion of Adventure Sports including water sports and other adventure based activities in the region, he said.
Chief Parliamentary Secretary Kishori Lal, President of the Billing Paragliding Association, Anurag Sharma and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.