Sport is fundamental to nation-building: Panwar

Krishan Lal Panwar, Minister for Development and Panchayat, said that sport is “the biggest medium of self-control, team spirit and self-development in life,” adding that it is the cornerstone of nation-building. He was addressing students at the annual sports meet organised at Saint Mary’s Convent Senior Secondary School here on Children’s Day.

The minister said more than 1,500 sports nurseries had been opened in the state, producing national and international players. The government aims to set up 500 sports nurseries each year to provide opportunities for rural talent. “Haryana is the first state in the country which provides maximum cash awards to players for winning medals,” he claimed. “If any player sustains injury during a tournament, the government will bear the expenditure of the player’s treatment.”

He said athletes such as Neeraj Chopra, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and Pooja Dhanda had become global inspirations. He also noted the growing participation of girls, saying they were at the forefront of building a strong and healthy society.

Panwar announced Rs 11 lakh for the rejuvenation of the school library. Students also presented a cultural programme at the inauguration. Hundreds of students participated in 100m, 200m, 400m, long jump and high jump events, showcasing their sporting skills.