INAUGURATION: 58th National School Games begins

Ludhiana, December 18, 2012: Punjab Minister for Higher Education and Languages Sikander Singh Maluka has announced that a separate sports directorate of primary schools would be set up in the coming year.

In his inaugural address on the inaugural ceremony of 58th National School Games at Guru Nanak Stadium here today, he added the state government was making serious efforts for promoting sports. He added the state government had decided to give prize money of Rs. 15,000, Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 7,500 to the sportspersons attaining first, second and third position, respectively at the national – level.

Further, he said the state government would bring forward budding sports children by providing them coaching and the required facilities on the pattern of china, so that they could be able to get more medals in Asian and Olympic Games.  

He said the state government had also decided to give additional marks in the final examinations to the students actively participating in sports because these students did not devote sufficient time on studies because of sports activities.

The minister also announced that the state government had also decided to promote other games such as wresting besides Kabaddi. He said next year, wrestling competitions would also be organised besides Kabaddi.

Maluka appealed to the players to play in complete discipline and sports spirit.

Earlier, the minister took salute from the players.

After the address, the minister freed colourful balloons in the air and announced to open the games.    

Among others, Narinder Singh, Deputy Director, Sports, Punjab also spoke.  

A cultural programme was also presented on the occasion.