Forest Minister and Bidar district In charge Eshwar B. Khandre called upon the youth to stay away from addictions and engage in regular exercise and sports to build a strong and healthy society.

He was speaking after laying the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art sports complex being constructed at an estimated cost of ₹14.75 crore at Bhalki in Bidar district on Saturday.

“While sports entertain spectators, they strengthen the minds and bodies of those who play. Sports train your body and sharpen your intellect, as every game demands a strategy, which keeps the brain active. Simultaneously, the will to win keeps the body active. Thus, sports promote holistic growth of both mind and body,” he said.

Citing Swami Vivekananda, Mr. Khandre reminded the gathering that “one can reach heaven more easily by playing football than by reading the Gita”, emphasising that physical strength is fundamental to personal and national well-being. “Health is indeed wealth,” he added.

Explaining the purpose behind building the modern sports facility, the Minister said the goal was to encourage rural youth to actively take part in sports and emerge as champions. “Talented athletes from this region should begin by winning at the taluk level, excel at the district level, and eventually go on to shine at the national and international levels,” he said.

He emphasised the need for identifying hidden talent in rural areas and providing the right infrastructure to nurture it. “This sports complex will provide the necessary environment for youth to train and grow,” he stated.

At the end of the programme, Mr. Khandre administered a unique pledge to the youth urging them to commit to daily exercise, refrain from intoxicants such as alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and digital addictions like mobile gaming and betting, and instead focus on becoming knowledgeable, responsible, and patriotic citizens.

The Minister concluded by reiterating that an addiction-free, environmentally conscious, and physically fit youth is the foundation for a vibrant and progressive society.