Assembly Speaker UT Khader delivered a powerful message on Monday, stating that sports events do much more than provide physical exercise. He declared they transform citizens into responsible individuals and help build a strong India.
Inauguration of Major Athletics Championship
Khader spoke these words while inaugurating the 85th All India Inter-University Athletics Championship 2026. The event took place at Swarajya Maidan in Moodbidri. Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences organized the championship in association with Alva's Education Foundation. The Association of Indian Universities provided auspices for the sports meet.
Cultural Celebration and Nation-Building
"Today in Moodbidri, we are unveiling the cultures of the world, India, and all of Karnataka," Khader announced. He called this an event every athlete would remember for a lifetime. The speaker urged participating students to emerge as forces in nation-building. He expressed his wish for a brighter future for the country through these athletes.
University Leadership Speaks
Dr Bhagavan BC, vice-chancellor of RGUHS, presided over the inauguration ceremony. He noted that India represents a young nation with 400 million youth. Dr Bhagavan congratulated the athletes for receiving a grand welcome and excellent sports facilities at ‘Jain Kashi'.
Distinguished Guests and Participants
The event saw participation from numerous dignitaries. MLC SL Bhoje Gowda attended along with Mohammad Mohsin, additional chief secretary of the health and family welfare department. Alva's Education Foundation chairman M Mohan Alva joined syndicate members of RGUHS. Dr Iftikhar Ali, Dr Shivasharana, senate member Dr Vaishali Srijith, registrar Arjun Odeyar, and deputy registrar Dr B Vasantha Shetty were all present.
Honors and Scale of the Event
National kabaddi champion Dhanalakshmi received special honors during the ceremony. The sports meet attracted over 4,000 athletes from 304 universities across India. Around 1,000 sports officials participated in managing the championship.
Cultural Procession Precedes Ceremony
A grand procession took place before the inaugural ceremony. Cultural teams representing the diverse arts and cultures of India participated in this vibrant display. The procession set a celebratory tone for the championship's official opening.
