Himachal gives Rs.1 crore, plot to shooter Vijay

Kullu, Aug 15 (IANS): Pistol shooter Vijay Kumar on Wednesday, was honoured by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal for winning an Olympic silver medal.

At the state-level Independence Day function here, Dhumal gave a cash award of Rs.1 crore to Vijay, who belongs to the state. He was also honoured with Himachal Gaurav award.

The army man was also offered a residential plot in the industrial town of Baddi in Solan district.

Vijay, who is subedar in the Dogra Regiment of the Indian Army, was here along with his father Banku Ram, a retired subedar, and mother Roshni Devi.

“I’m grateful to the people of the state for extending love and encouragement. I want to train the youth of the state (in shooting)”, Vijay told IANS.

Refuting rumours of his quitting the army, he said: “Whatever I have achieved, it is due to the army. It has played an important role in shaping my career.”

Vijay belongs to Harsour village in the Badsar area of Hamirpur district.