Students urged to participate actively in sports alongside academics

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The South Zone–1 CBSE Archery Championship was inaugurated at the Ridge School in Kurnool on Sunday. The three-day championship will feature the participation of more than 2,000 students from around 650 schools across different parts of South India.

Former Rajya Sabha Member T.G. Venkatesh, NCC Girls Battalion Commanding Officer Colonel Jobee Philip, and Ravindra Educational Institutions founder G. Pullaiah were the chief guests at the inaugural event.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Venkatesh emphasised the importance of sports in the lives of students. He said that sports not only enhance physical fitness but also nurture mental well-being, confidence, discipline, concentration and perseverance. He urged students to participate actively in sports alongside academics.

He highlighted archery as one of India’s ancient sporting traditions and recalled the legendary association of the sport with Lord Rama and Arjuna. He said that the rich heritage reflected India’s long-standing sporting culture.

He further observed that archery develops concentration, self-control, patience, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to focus on a target. The ability to remain calm under pressure and make composed decisions during competition also contributes to the overall personality development of students, he added.

Sharing his personal interest in sports, Mr. Venkatesh said he had extended his support for the development of indoor and outdoor stadiums in Kurnool.

Meanwhile, Mr. Pullaiah recalled that Ridge School had earlier hosted the CBSE Cluster-level Football Championship and said that the school hosting a major sporting event once again was a matter of pride for Kurnool.

Ravindra Educational Institutions chairman G.V.M. Mohan Kumar said that Kurnool had traditionally been known for sports such as volleyball, football and hockey, and expressed happiness that the city was now emerging as a venue for sports such as archery.

The inaugural event was attended by Ridge Schools CEO G. Gopinath, co-CEO Sowmya Gopinath, Ravindra Educational Institutions vice-chairman G. Vamsidhar, and others.

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