CHANDIGARH: Pressing for revival of sporting culture in the country, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday said there is an urgent need to upgrade infrastructure, especially in the rural areas.
Delivering a congratulatory address to Panjab University, Chandigarh for winning the coveted Maulana Abul Kalam Azad trophy for the second time in a row, Naidu, who is the chancellor of the institution said games, yoga and any other physical activity must become an integral to people’s daily routine for good health and a stress-free life.
Observing that excellence in sporting comes by relentless hard work coupled with planning and determination, Naidu hailed the coaches, management, staff and students of the Panjab University for achieving sporting excellence along with academic brilliance.
He said that sports and games are crucial parts of our lives; they not only improve physical abilities but also enhance social skills. Participation in sports increases concentration level and develops teamwork.
Asserting that sports and games help in developing an attitude of equanimity, he said that this balance is essential to accept failures and setbacks without any sense of bitterness, ill-will or grudge.
Expressing concern over the rising incidence of lifestyle diseases in our country, especially among the youth, Naidu said that it is of paramount importance to make our youngsters aware of the dangers of unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle.
He lauded the Fit India campaign initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that it would definitely encourage people to stay fit and healthy.