23-02-2026 : Governor inaugurated the four-day Uttarakhand State University Sports Championship at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar.
Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note
Lok Bhavan Dehradun 23 February, 2026
Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) inaugurated the four-day Uttarakhand State University Sports Championship at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar.
On the occasion, the Governor awarded medals and certificates to the winners of the 800 metres race in the men’s and women’s categories. In the men’s 800 metres race, Ankit Nath from Soban Singh Jeena University secured first position, Asif from Sri Dev Suman Uttarakhand University secured second position, and Lalit Singh from Soban Singh Jeena University secured third position.
In the women’s 800 metres race, Neetu from Kumaun University secured first position, Chandni from Uttarakhand Sanskrit University secured second position, and Sheetal Bhatt from Soban Singh Jeena University secured third position.
Addressing the athletes, the Governor said that sports are not merely a means of winning medals but a powerful instrument of nation-building. The discipline, dedication and team spirit developed on the field strengthen the spirit of “Nation First.” When an athlete enters the field, he or she represents not only oneself, but also the State and the Nation.
He emphasised that university life should not be limited to academic knowledge alone. A balanced development of education and sports forms the foundation of holistic personality development. A student who excels academically and remains active in sports becomes confident, balanced and capable of leadership.
The Governor stated that the vision of “Fit Youth, Strong India” can be realised only when universities prioritise sports. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, initiatives such as Fit India Movement and Khelo India have given new direction to sports culture in the country through mass participation.
He observed that youth who dedicate themselves to sports are less likely to be drawn towards negative influences. At a time when substance abuse poses a serious social challenge, sports provide the most effective positive direction for young people. Sports instil energy, confidence and a sense of purpose in life.
The Governor added that continuous efforts are being made in the State to strengthen sports infrastructure, academies and training facilities. University-level competitions provide athletes with a valuable platform to hone their talent and advance to higher levels.
He encouraged the participants to aim beyond the present competition and set their sights on global platforms such as the Olympics. He expressed hope that athletes from Uttarakhand would bring laurels to the country and raise the national flag high on international stages. He noted that when the national flag is hoisted on a global platform, it represents not just an individual victory but the pride of 1.4 billion citizens. Victory and defeat are both part of life; true success lies in effort and perseverance. Sports teach humility in success and resilience in failure—qualities essential for leadership and excellence.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Manmohan Singh Chauhan of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology welcomed the Governor and other Vice-Chancellors and dignitaries present on the occasion. He informed that around 722 athletes from 10 universities are participating in the championship.
Vice-Chancellor Professor D.S. Rawat of Kumaun University, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Satpal Singh Bisht of Soban Singh Jeena University, Registrar Deepa Vinay, District Magistrate Nitin Singh Bhadoria, Superintendent of Police Jitendra Chaudhary, Chief Medical Officer Dr. K.K. Agrawal, Additional District Magistrate Kaustubh Mishra, along with Deans, Directors, coaches, officials and athletes were present on the occasion.
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