23-02-2026 : Address of the Hon’ble Governor at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Uttarakhand State University Sports and Games Festival.

Jai Hind!

On this auspicious occasion, it is a matter of great joy and pride for me to be present among the bright youth of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand at the inauguration ceremony of the Uttarakhand State University Sports and Games Festival. This event is not merely a competition, but a celebration of youth power, discipline, determination, and national spirit.

We call Uttarakhand “Devbhoomi” — the land of faith, penance, sacrifice, and valor. But today, I see it as the land of vibrant youth power. The towering Himalayas inspire us to set high goals, and the flowing rivers Ganga and Yamuna teach us to remain dynamic and progressive. This festival symbolizes that very energy.

Our core belief is: “Nation First.” Sports are not just a means to win medals; they are a powerful instrument of nation-building. The discipline, dedication, and team spirit developed on the field strengthen the consciousness of putting the nation above all. When a player steps onto the field, he or she represents not just themselves, but also their state and the nation.

University life should not be confined to academic knowledge alone. The balanced development of education and sports forms the foundation of holistic personality development. A student who excels in studies and actively participates in sports becomes a confident, balanced citizen with leadership qualities.

The purpose of education is not merely to confer degrees, but to ensure overall development. The National Education Policy 2020 has clearly integrated sports and co-curricular activities into the mainstream, paving the way for the all-round development of students. This festival is a strong example of that vision in action.

This land is a symbol of bravery. The glorious military traditions of the Kumaon Regiment and the Garhwal Rifles teach us courage and discipline on the battlefield. That same tradition inspires us to display indomitable spirit and determination on the sports field.

The resolve of “Fit Youth, Empowered India” can only be realized when our universities prioritize sports. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, initiatives such as the Fit India Movement and Khelo India have given a new direction to sports culture in the country through public participation.

A youth who sweats on the sports field never strays in life. One of the major challenges facing society today is the growing tendency toward substance abuse. Sports are the most effective medium to channel youth energy in a positive direction. Sports instill energy, build confidence, and give life a meaningful purpose. I expect this festival to inspire our youth toward a drug-free, healthy, and disciplined lifestyle.

The geographical landscape of Uttarakhand is challenging. The difficult conditions of the mountains naturally make the youth courageous, resilient, and persevering. If this natural strength is combined with scientific training and proper opportunities, our athletes can excel at national and international levels.

I am delighted to see a large number of women athletes participating here today. This is truly encouraging. “Healthy Women, Empowered Families” is not just an idea, but the foundation of social transformation. When daughters move forward in sports, it changes not only society’s mindset but also the direction of the nation.

Continuous efforts are being made to strengthen sports grounds, academies, and training facilities in the state. Events at the university level provide a platform for athletes to showcase and refine their talent and move forward in their careers.

Preparation for national and international platforms begins at the university level itself. I urge all of you not to limit yourselves to this competition, but to set your sights on global platforms such as the Olympics.

May such athletes emerge from the soil of Uttarakhand who raise India’s tricolor high on the world stage. When the tricolor waves internationally, it is not just the victory of a player, but the pride of 1.4 billion Indians. That moment becomes one of collective national consciousness and glory.

Victory and defeat are both parts of life. True victory lies not in the medal, but in your effort. Sports teach us how to remain humble in success and patient in failure. These qualities form the foundation of leadership and excellence in life.

Dear athletes, remember: today’s player is tomorrow’s leader. Today you hold sports equipment in your hands; tomorrow, you will hold the future of the nation. Your talent is not just the pride of your university, but the identity of Uttarakhand and India.

Your hard work, discipline, and determination form the foundation of a Developed India 2047. When youth are empowered, the nation becomes strong; and when the nation is strong, India’s prestige rises higher in the world.

With these sentiments, I extend my best wishes for the successful organization of the Uttarakhand State University Sports and Games Festival and wish all of you a bright future.

For us, the nation is not just a word — the nation is our duty, our faith, and our pride.

Let us all take a pledge: with the strength of a healthy body, the firmness of a determined mind, and the unwavering flame of patriotism, we will build a Fit Uttarakhand, create a Strong India, and realize the dream of Developed India 2047.

With this confidence, I formally declare the Uttarakhand State University Sports and Games Festival open.

Jai Hind!
Jai Uttarakhand!