Prayagraj,

26 Feb (HS): Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and

Sciences (SHUATS) kicked off its much-anticipated Annual Athletic Meet 2026

today. The campus was vibrant with energy as students, faculty, and

distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and

physical excellence.

Inaugural

Ceremony & Traditions: The event began with a solemn word of prayer by the

University Chaplain, Rev. Lal Chung Gangte, followed by a soul-stirring gospel

song by the University Choir. Prof. (Dr.) C. J. Wesley, Additional Registrar

and Chairman of the Athletic Committee, welcomed the distinguished guests with

bouquets and mementos. In his welcome address, he recounted the glorious

history of sports at SHUATS, inspiring the current generation of athletes. A

spectacular March Past was performed by all four houses, led by General Captain

Ratan Soni. The athletes gave a Guard of Honour to the Chief Guest, Hon'ble

Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra B. Lal, and Guests of Honour Sri Abhin

Shyam Gupta and Sri Pramod Tiwari.

The

Vice-Chancellor officially declared the meet open. The ceremonial torch was

handed over to the General Captain, who passed it to the Boys’ and Girls’

captains before lighting the main cauldron. The General Captain then led the

athletes in an oath-taking ceremony, pledging to uphold the university's honor

and the glory of sports. The sky was filled with color and peace as the Chief

Guest released balloons and pigeons into the air.

Abhin

Shyam Gupta (Guest of Honour): Emphasized the synergy between physical activity

and nutrition. He remarked, A champion’s journey begins in the kitchen as

much as on the track. A healthy diet is the fuel that transforms talent into

performance.

Pramod

Tiwari (Guest of Honour) Focused on discipline and the daring vision of former

President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Quoting the late President, he said,

Dreams are not those which you see while sleeping; dreams are those which

do not let you sleep.

Most

Rev. Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra B. Lal (Chief Guest) addressed the gathering on

health and the profound purpose of life. He stated thatGod created human

beings in His own image and likeness with a specific purpose. We are not

ordinary people; we are extraordinary creations. Discover yourself through

discipline, fitness, and appreciation for the life you have been given. The

SHUATS Taekwondo team captivated the audience with a high-energy performance

demonstrating their strength and talent.

The

event was graced by Pro-VC (Academics) Prof. (Dr.) Jonathan Lal, Pro-VC

(Administration) Prof. (Dr.) Biswaroop Mehra, Pro-VC (PMD) Prof. (Dr.) Ritu

Prakash Dubey, and Registrar Prof. (Dr.) Ranu Prasad. Also present were all

university directors, deans, HODs, faculty members, and thousands of

enthusiastic students.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi