Belthangady: Dharmasthala Dharmahikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade inaugurated the 62nd national level Under-19 girls’ volleyball tournament organised by the government of Karnataka, department of PU education, Bengaluru, SDM Educational Society, SDM PU College, Ujire and School Games Federation of India on Monday January 9 at Shree Rathnavarna Heggade stadium, Ujire.

Speaking on the occasion Dr Heggade said that level of sports in India is progressing towards international level.

“Previously Indian players were struggling to win even bronze medal, but now we are winning gold medals also. For the better future of sports in India players from rural areas should be promoted,” he said.

He further said that development in science and technology has helped the players to learn the sports by themselves. He lauded the efforts of organisers for the constructive organisation of the tournament.

Minister for Sports, Fisheries and Youth affairs Pramod Madhwaraj praised Dr Veerendra Heggade for his precious support to the field of sports. Later he handed over the cheque of Rs 5 lakh to the Principal of SDM PU College N Dinesh Chowta.

Former Minister and MLA Abhaychnadra Jain, School games federation of India President R K Parihar, DDPU Thimmaiah, Ujire Grama Panchayat President Sridhar Poojary, SDM Sports Club Secretary Balabhaskar and others were present.