District Magistrate Umesh Pratap Singh lit the lamp and inaugurated the 70th Secondary School Inter-Block Sports Meet at Nehru Stadium, Bijnor on Wednesday. On this occasion, the District Magistrate unfurled the sports meet flag and took the salute of the march-past presented by NCC cadets and students of various schools. He also sent a message of peace, harmony and mutual goodwill by releasing pigeons. The Inter-Block Sports Meet will be held until 09 October, during which students of various secondary schools will participate in various sports competitions. On the occasion of the inauguration of the sports meet, various students of different schools presented welcome songs, hymns to Mother Saraswati and many captivating cultural programs. The vibrant performances of the students created an atmosphere of enthusiasm and excitement in the event. The guests and spectators appreciated the performance of the students. On this occasion, District Magistrate Umesh Pratap Singh addressed the students and said that sports play an important role in everyone's life. Through sports, physical health as well as mental and intellectual abilities develop. He said that sports develop discipline, self-confidence, patience, leadership skills and team spirit among students. Sports provide the courage and capability to face the various challenges of life with a positive approach. The District Magistrate said that sports are as important as education for the all-round development of students. He appealed to the students to participate regularly in sports activities along with their studies and to hone their talents and bring glory to the block and the state. He wished all the participants a bright future. The District Magistrate honored the winning students who performed excellently in various sports competitions by presenting them with medals and encouraged them. He said that participating in competitions with sportsmanship is more important than winning or losing. He motivated the players to move forward with continuous effort, discipline and positive thinking. During the event, the District Magistrate was honored by the District School Inspector DK Saxena and organizers with a souvenir. On this occasion, principals of various schools, teachers, sports officials, NCC cadets, students and other relevant officials and staff were present.