207 Teams from Across India Showcase Strength, Skill, and Sporting Spirit
Jalandhar March 17 (Jaswinder Singh Azad)- DAV University, Jalandhar proudly inaugurated All India Inter-University Taekwondo (Men’s) Championship 2025–26, setting the stage for a dynamic display of athletic excellence, discipline, and national unity. The championship has drawn an impressive 207 teams from universities across the country, reflecting the growing prominence of sports in higher education and the rising competitive spirit among youth.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by eminent dignitaries including the Chief Guest, Ms. Nina Tangri, Member of Provincial Parliament, Ontario, Canada, Guest of Honour, Mr.Arpit Shukla, IPS (Special DGP, Law & Order, Punjab) and President, Punjab Taekwondo Association, Prof.(Dr.) Devendra Arora, President, Sports Academy Association of India, S.Sajjan Singh Cheema, Arjuna Awardee & former Indian basketball captain, Dr. Babu Lal, Observer, AIU, Dr. Chenappa Durai, Mr. Shiv Kumar, Tournament Director, AIU, Prof. Sanjeev Kumar Arora, Registrar, DAV University Jalandhar and Mr. Ashwini Tangri.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof. Manoj Kumar, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and participants. In his address, he emphasized the integral role of sports in holistic education, noting that sports cultivate discipline, resilience, leadership, and teamwork. He further highlighted the University’s unwavering commitment in fostering sports excellence and nurturing talent at both national and international levels.
Nina Tangri, lauded the University’s initiative in organizing a national-level sporting event
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Nina Tangri, lauded the University’s initiative in organizing a national-level sporting event and underscored the role of sports in empowering youth and strengthening global ties. She emphasized that sports not only build physical strength but also nurture leadership qualities, teamwork, and resilience among young people, preparing them to face future challenges with confidence.
Prof. Devendra Arora, highlighted the growing synergy between academics and sports, appreciating the University’s proactive approach in promoting holistic development. He remarked that institutions that encourage both intellectual growth and sporting excellence create well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society.
In his address, Mr. Arpit Shukla, IPS spoke on the importance of discipline, physical fitness, and mental strength in achieving success. He encouraged students to adopt sports as a way of life, noting that the values learned on the field: determination, focus, and perseverance play a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders. He also motivated the participants to maintain a spirit of sportsmanship and strive for excellence both on and off the field.
The formal vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Yashveer Singh, Director, Sports, DAV University who expressed sincere gratitude to all dignitaries, participating teams, officials, and organizers for contributing to the success of the event. The championship promises thrilling competitions ahead, celebrating the finest taekwondo talent from across India.