Himachal Pradesh is set to host the paragliding world cup at Bir Billing area of Kangra district in October. This was for the first time that world cup is being organised in India. Nine days event would give boost to the sports and tourism activities in the state and the international participants, pilots and other visitors would also be able to witness the majestic beauty of Kangra valley.

• Urban Development Minister Sudhir Sharma who was unanimously elected as the president of Billing Paragliding Association during the annual general meeting on Sunday said that paragliding world cup is scheduled to be held from October 23 to 31.
• The infrastructure will be developed keeping in view the international standards. He said that prior to the World Cup, National Championship will be held from October 18 to 20.
• The parasailing activities will be started at the two spots Dharamsala and Pong Dam for which ACI ( Aero Club of India) has allocated two vehicles with six para- sails.
• Rs 2.50 crore will be spent on the upgradation of roads and infrastructure, Rs 95 lakh on the development of takeoff site and Rs 55 lacs on the landing site.
• So far 47 countries have registered for participation in the world cup. He said that as per the instructions of ACI, Biling Paragliding Association (BPA) will be the parent body to regulate this sport all over India.
• Minister said that keeping in view the world cup and local tourism potential, he had met the Airports Authority of India’s Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD) R K Srivastava in New Delhi with the request to install Doppler Very High Frequency Omni System at Gaggal Airport near Dharamshala to improve visibility for landing of regular flights.
• A team from AAI will soon visit Kangra for putting up DVOR system. He said that paragliding world cup will pave the way for further developing the tourism potential in the entire Kangra district.