Adventure sports policy revised by cabinet

DAINIK NATION BUREAU

Trivendra Singh Rawat cabinet on Wednesday approved a revised adventure sports policy by imposing a total ban on the use of intoxicants by enthusiasts while rafting, kayaking or canoeing in the state. The policy, which also fixes a minimum qualification for raft operators. cabinet also approved revised rules for paragliding and aero sports

The amended rules on river rafting, kayaking and canoeing are more practical, which will make adventure sports safer. Stricter penal provisions had been made in the revised policy for violators, Finance Minister Prakash Pant said.

Taking cognizance on frequent accidents during rafting, the Uttarakhand High Court had imposed a ban on the activity at the peak of the season in June until a revised policy on adventure sports was brought into force.

The High Court had attributed the rise in accidents during river rafting primarily to the absence of proper regulations and underlined the need for a revised policy on adventure sports.

Cabinet has also cleared amendments to the Religious Freedom Act, laying down a well-defined procedure for cancellation of registration of institutions that indulge in fraudulent activities in the name of religion.