Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 13 Feb: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami honoured international woman bodybuilder and a pride of Uttarakhand, Pratibha Thapliyal for her remarkable achievements in the field of bodybuilding here today. The CM felicitated Thapliyal by presenting a shawl and a sapling in recognition of her accomplishments.
On the occasion, the CM described Pratibha Thapliyal’s success as a matter of pride for the state’s ‘matri shakti’ and termed it a strong and inspiring example of women’s empowerment. He said that her achievements would motivate daughters of the state, particularly those residing in remote hill regions, to move forward in sports as well as other spheres of life. He observed that the women in the state are now actively exploring career opportunities not only in sports but also in diverse fields, which reflects the bright future of the state.
Dhami asserted that the land of Uttarakhand has traditionally been women-centric, with women in the hills forming the backbone of agricultural, social and cultural life. He noted that, from time to time, women of Uttarakhand have guided the nation and the world in areas such as environmental protection, social service, sports and good governance. He affirmed that the state takes immense pride in its ‘Matri shakti’.
The CM further stated that efforts would be made to provide opportunities in government service to such talented women of the State who have achieved notable success in various fields, so that they may serve as role models for society.
It may be reminded here that 43 year old Pratibha Thapliyal has made her mark at both national and international levels over the past four years. In 2023, she had won a gold medal at the National Bodybuilding Championship and secured a bronze medal at the Asian Bodybuilding Championship. On 9 February 2026, she claimed a gold medal at the National Women’s Bodybuilding Competition held in Karimnagar, Telangana. She is among the few women bodybuilders to have won medals at the Women’s World Championship as well as the Asian Championship, bringing laurels not only to Uttarakhand but to the entire country.
The CM further stated that the state reiterates its commitment to extending all possible encouragement and support to women sportspersons so that daughters of Uttarakhand may continue to hoist the flag of success at national and international platforms. Statehood agitationist and senior BJP leader Ravindra Jugran was also present on the occasion.
