World Skydiving Day: Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat takes plunge

NEW DELHI: World witnessed the first-ever celebration of World Skydiving Day on July 13. A rare event took place in India as well. Minister of Tourism & Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who will lead the event inaugurated a new skydiving aircraft followed by his own exhilarating skydiving experience.

The 53-year-old minister’s adventurous leap was captured on video, showcasing his joyful demeanour throughout the entire dive. Accompanied by a seasoned instructor, Mr Shekhawat received comprehensive skydiving instructions before boarding the plane that would carry him skyward. His infectious enthusiasm was palpable as he expressed being “super excited” before the jump. Mid-air, when asked about his feelings, he enthusiastically exclaimed, “Good good, maza aa gaya” (had great fun).

FLASH: To mark this occasion, a special event was held at Skyhigh, India’s only civilian skydiving drop zone, located at Narnaul Airstrip in Haryana. Union Minister of Tourism Gajendra Singh Sekhawat also participated.#skyhigh #skydivingday #Narnaulairstripskyhigh… pic.twitter.com/SmVUdiKLWQ

— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) July 13, 2024

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After a safe landing, the minister addressed reporters, emphasizing the global significance of the day for aero sports. “Today is a thrilling day for me, but more importantly, it marks a milestone for aero sports globally,” he stated. “The inaugural celebration of World Skydiving Day sets the stage for aerosports and tourism to reach new heights.”

Mr Shekhawat highlighted skydiving’s potential to boost tourism in India, noting its popularity among Indian travelers who experience the sport abroad. “Thousands of Indians enjoy these sports internationally, and now they will have the opportunity to experience them here,” he remarked. He also expressed optimism for the success of India’s first dedicated skydiving aircraft.

“As the tourism minister, it is my duty to develop new tourist attractions,” he affirmed. “We aim to promote skydiving in more states, including Madhya Pradesh and Goa, to enhance their appeal as adventure tourism destinations.”

FLASH: For the first time ever, World Skydiving Day was celebrated globally on July 13, 2024, and in India. In the event union tourism minister Gajendra Singh Sekhawat also participated.#worldskydivingday #indiacelebratesskydivingday #skydivingday #ganjendrasinghsekhawat pic.twitter.com/wNh97CeA1l

— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) July 13, 2024

World Skydiving Day aims to unite skydiving enthusiasts globally in celebration of the adrenaline-pumping sport and its community. The event held at Narnaul Airstrip underscores India’s rising presence on the international skydiving scene, highlighting the country’s commitment to promoting adventure tourism.

“We are thrilled to host this landmark event at Skyhigh, bringing together skydivers and enthusiasts to commemorate the inaugural World Skydiving Day,” remarked a spokesperson for the organizing committee. “Minister Shekhawat’s participation underscores India’s dedication to fostering adventure sports and showcasing our capabilities in this exhilarating field.”

The occasion is expected to draw attention to the growing popularity of skydiving in India, encouraging more individuals to explore the thrill of freefalling from great heights. As preparations continue for the event, anticipation builds among participants and spectators alike for a day of excitement and celebration in the skies above Narnaul.