Punjab Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian on Tuesday said sports plays a vital role in ensuring the physical and mental well-being of students.
He was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the 18th annual athletics meet at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University here.
Officials said more than 200 students representing constituent and affiliated colleges participated in the event.
College of Veterinary Sciences here bagged the overall trophy and Avneet Singh Brar was declared the best athlete among men. Shivangi was adjudged the best athlete in the women’s category.
Khuddian encouraged the students to actively engage in sports and said they play a key role in the holistic development of an individual’s personality.
Mohammad Sadiq, noted Punjab Singer and Former Member of Parliament from Fardikot, was the guest of honour at the event.
Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice-Chancellor, said the university promotes sports to keep students physically fit and mentally strong. He appreciated the efforts of the organising committees and encouraged participants to uphold the sports spirit.
Among men, Karam Singh dominated the middle-and long-distance races, winning 3,000m, 1,500m and 800m events. Avneet Singh Brar secured first position in 400m, 400m hurdles and high jump competitions.
Harpreet Singh won the 110m hurdles and 200m races and Jasnoor Singh emerged champion in the triple jump and long jump events. Sourav Uppal clinched gold in shot put and discus throw.
In women’s events, Jaismeen Malhi won 800m and shot put titles, and Shivangi secured first position in 200m, long jump and discus throw competitions.
Harsanjh Kaur Pannu won high jump and Sehajpreet Kaur Chahal claimed gold in 1,500m race.
In relay competitions, College of Veterinary Sciences here won the 4x100m (women) and the the College of Veterinary Science, Rampura Phul, Bathinda, secured the top spot in the 4x100m and 4x400m (men).
Amarjit Singh Nanda, former Vice-Chancellor, presided over the prize distribution ceremony and motivated students to perform with dedication and team spirit.
A horse show by university’s National Cadet Corps (NCC) unit added colour to the event’s closing ceremony.
