Dharamshala, November 16: Anurag Thakur, Union Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs has promised 100 tables to the Himachal Pradesh Table Tennis Association (HPTTA) for the promotion of the sport in the state. The tables will be distributed by the association to the academies in all districts of the state.

The Union Minister, who is also the president of the Himachal Pradesh Table Tennis Association (HPTTA), during his address at the inauguration of the UTT 81st Cadet and Sub-Junior National Table Tennis Championships today, said that he was impressed that the sport has grown in stature in the country and that the Indians were winning medals at international events.

Addressing the teams that have come from 32 states, the HPTTA president reminded the players that dedication and practice alone can help them achieve their ultimate goal. He cited the example of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and current cricket captain Virat Kohli who, through their sheer hard work and devotion, attained stardom.

“You can become a star and win medals for India, provided you have the same level of passion and commitment which these cricketers have shown over a period with consistency. You know, Sachin (Tendulkar) never missed his practice, rain or shine. Practice only can make you perfect,” said the minister.

Appreciating the care and commitment of the parents that have accompanied their children for the championships here, Thakur said that he was really overwhelmed by their presence. The former president of HPCA also said he would request his ex-colleagues to throw open the facilities available for training available nearby to help the paddlers make use of them.

He also made a special request those in HPCA to help the players visit the high-altitude cricket stadium, right opposite to the table tennis venue, and take pictures.

“It will be a nice experience and good remembrance for you all. Normally, HPCA does not allow anyone other than a Ranji Trophy player, but I will request the officials to allow you inside to see the facilities at the picturesque stadium,” said the HPTTA chief.