Garhwal Post Bureau
Ghaziabad, 4 Nov: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami today attended the closing ceremony of the 37th Akhil Bharatiya Khelkood Samaroh-2026 organised by Vidya Bharati in Ghaziabad. On the occasion, he felicitated players who excelled in various competitions and encouraged the participants.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the CM noted that the sports competitions not only help in honing the talent of students but also play an important role in developing discipline, unity, cooperation and a sense of national pride among them. He said that the participation of players from different states of the country has made the event truly special. The presence of athletes from the Himalayan border regions to Kanyakumari, and from the western frontiers to the North-East, offers a glimpse of a miniature India on a single platform.
Sharing memories from his student life, Dhami said it is heartening to see participants from diverse linguistic, cultural and geographical backgrounds coming together through sports. He said that the playing field binds everyone together and provides not only an opportunity to compete but also to understand each other’s culture and traditions. He noted that both victory and defeat are important aspects of sports. While success motivates persons to move forward, setbacks should inspire them to overcome shortcomings and perform better in the future.
The CM also observed that Vidya Bharati has been playing a significant role in strengthening values, discipline and the spirit of nation-building alongside education. He noted that what had begun with the establishment of the first Saraswati Shishu Mandir in Gorakhpur in 1952 has now expanded to various parts of the country. Referring to the organisation’s motto, ‘Sa Vidya Ya Vimuktaye’, he said it reflects the broader purpose of education. He also praised the institution’s efforts to promote education in border, rural, tribal and underprivileged areas. He added that in Uttarakhand as well, Vidya Bharati schools have made a significant contribution towards imparting education and values.
Dhami said that the Indian culture has always attached great importance to physical development along with education. Quoting the ancient saying, ‘Shariramadyam Khalu Dharmasadhanam’, he said that a healthy body forms the foundation for fulfilling life’s duties and goals. Sports help develop qualities such as courage, patience, self-confidence, leadership and teamwork among students. He added that the disciplined routine followed during such sporting events also teaches participants the value of time management, self-reliance and collective responsibility.
The CM added that Vidya Bharati provides talented athletes opportunities to progress through competitions held at school, state, regional and national levels. Citing the example of Paris Paralympics 2024 silver medallist Nishad Kumar, he said that determination, continuous practice and hard work can help achieve even the most challenging goals. He expressed confidence that many of the participants in the event would go on to bring glory to the country at national and international levels.
He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, continuous efforts are being made to promote a sporting culture across the country. Initiatives such as Khelo India and the Fit India Movement have increased awareness among young people about sports and physical fitness. These programmes have also provided talented sportspersons from ordinary families with better opportunities to showcase their abilities.
Dhami said that the state government remains committed to expanding sports infrastructure and resources in the state. Continuous efforts are being made to encourage sporting talent and provide athletes with better training facilities and opportunities for advancement. He said the government is particularly focused on ensuring that talented youth from remote areas also get opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and build successful careers in sports.
Congratulating the winning athletes, the CM wished all the participants success in their future endeavours. He also appreciated the office-bearers of Vidya Bharati, teachers, coaches and all volunteers associated with the successful organisation of the event.
Among those present on the occasion were Mahesh Gupta, Vidya Bharati Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Sansthan General Secretary Deshraj Sharma, Akhil Bharatiya Sah-Sangathan Mantri Yatindra Kumar Sharma, Akhil Bharatiya Sports Department Coordinator Muktesh Bagesha, Dr Vijay Pal, along with office-bearers of the organisation, teachers and other dignitaries.
