PANAJI: The Conference was declared open by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant in the august presence of Sr. Prof. Harilal B. Menon, Vice Chancellor, Goa University; Prof. Usha Nair, Vice-Chancellor (O), National Sports University, Imphal; Padma Shri-N. Kunjarani Devi, Olympian and Prof. Sunder Dhuri, Registrar, Goa University. The program was attended by distinguished dignitaries, sports professionals, researchers, policymakers, and staff of Goa University and National Sports University, Imphal.
The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Sunder Dhuri, Registrar, Goa University.
Dr Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa and the Chief Guest for the conference, began his speech by appreciating the organiser’s for bringing together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and sports enthusiasts to discuss the vital role of sports in youth empowerment. He emphasized that sports are not just about competition but also about building character, resilience, and leadership. He highlighted how physical education and sports contribute to lifelong health, discipline, and social well-being, making them essential components of an individual’s growth.
One of the most memorable moments of his speech was when he spoke about Goa’s global identity as a land of ‘Three S’—Sun, Sea, and Sand—and introduced a Fourth ‘S’—Sports. He stressed that Goa, known for its scenic beauty and tourism, should also be recognized as a hub for sports and fitness culture. His vision was to see Goa become a leading center for sports excellence and youth development. He also acknowledged the importance of traditional sports, stating that preserving indigenous games is crucial for cultural heritage and can be integrated into modern fitness programs. He urged educational institutions to incorporate sports into their curriculum and encouraged youth to embrace an active lifestyle. He expressed his gratitude to the participants and organisers, emphasizing that the insights and discussions from this conference should translate into actionable initiatives that promote fitness and sports at the grassroots level.
Sr. Prof. Harilal B. Menon, Vice Chancellor, Goa University; Prof. Usha Nair, Vice-Chancellor (O), National Sports University, Imphal and Padma Shri-N. Kunjarani Devi, Olympian, also addressed the gathering. They highlighted the scientific benefits of physical activity, linking it to improved mental health, discipline, and productivity. They also discussed the role of traditional sports in preserving cultural heritage and how these can be integrated into modern fitness programs. The speeches collectively reinforced the importance of sports in shaping a healthier society and encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge gained from the conference to promote fitness and well-being in their communities.
The Book of Abstracts of the conference was released at the auspicious hands of Dr. Pramod Sawant. The Overview of the Conference was presented by Shri Balachandra Jadar, Asst. Director of Physical Education and Sports, Goa University and a Vote of thanks was proposed by Dr Shyam Sundar Rath, Dean, Student Welfare, National Sports University, Imphal.
