Lucknow. Along with studies, sports competitions are also very important for the all-round development of students and strong nation building. Sports make the youth physically and mentally strong and inculcate in them discipline, team spirit and the spirit to achieve goals. Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay said this at the inauguration ceremony of the four-day Neeru Memorial Annual Sports Competition 'Spardha-2026' of St. Joseph Group of Institutions at KD Singh Babu Stadium on Sunday.
The program started with a march-past, pipe and brass band tunes and cultural presentations. Chief guest Yogendra Upadhyay and special guest Legislative Council member Umesh Dwivedi inaugurated the competition by lighting the torch and releasing pigeons and colorful balloons symbolizing peace.
Sports develop leadership skills
The Higher Education Minister said that Swami Vivekananda was of the opinion that a strong India would be built through playgrounds. Sports develop mental toughness, discipline and a sense of collectivity in students along with physical ability. The Prime Minister's call of 'Khelo India, Khilega India' has boosted the sports culture in the country. The result is that Indian players are making the country proud by performing better in international competitions.
Praising the march-past and band presentation of the students, he said that sportsmanship is more important than winning or losing in sports. Instead of getting disappointed after failure, players should try again with new enthusiasm. He encouraged the participants by quoting former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's lines 'Haar nahi manunga, rar nahi thaunga'.
Yogendra Upadhyay appreciated the educational contribution of St. Joseph's group. He also extended best wishes for the under-construction Gyanshila University being established by the Neeru Memorial Society with the inspiration of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and the cooperation of the state government.
Three players received Khel Ratna award
At the function, the chief guest honored the outstanding performers Prisha Gupta (Sitapur Road branch), Ayushi Singh (Ruchikhand branch) and Gaurav Saroj (Rajajipuram branch) by presenting them with 'Neeru Memorial Khel Ratna Award-2026'.
Dr. Pushpalata Aggarwal, Founder President of St. Joseph's Group, while congratulating the participants, said that a healthy mind resides in a healthy body. Sports play an important role in maintaining balance and positive energy in life.
Rajajipuram branch won in cricket
In the league match of cricket on the first day of the competition, Rajajipuram branch defeated Ruchikhand branch by scoring 102 runs for seven wickets. For Rajajipuram, Aarav bowled brilliantly and took four wickets. At the same time, in the 50 meter race of Pre-Sub Junior category, the little runners of Sitapur Road branch performed brilliantly.
St. Joseph's Group of Institutions Managing Director Anil Agarwal, Director Namrata Agarwal, Joint Director Srijan Agarwal, Squadron Leader Rakhi Agarwal, Principals of various branches, teachers and a large number of parents were present in the program.