Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports Minister, Anurag Singh Thakur exhorted the Indian sporting community to position the nation at the forefront of new developments in the international sporting arena. He delivered the convocation address at the Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University in Chennai this morning.<br />''In his address. Anurag Singh Thakur said, in the present scenario, Indian athletes are performing excellently in international events due to the constant support from the Centre and the states, and because of the modern sporting facilities being established across the country. <br />''<br />''The minister noted that research has shown rapid growth in physical education, yoga, and its allied subjects. He said science plays an important role in the performance of sportspersons.<br />''Mr Thakur lauded sportswomen for winning several laurels and for making many new records in sports.<br />''<br />''The minister said he created 450 sports coaches in just under nine months by reducing the number of administrative staff in sports bodies. He expressed confidence that the states will augment sports teachers and coaches to rejuvenate sports and games fields in the country.<br />''The Minister reiterated that competitions and tournaments teach Sportspersons on overcoming various obstacles in life. He said, winning or losing in competitions is not the real matter, but developing skills through sports and games will help move forward to face all facets of life.<br />''<br />''Mr. Thakur said sports and society have a complex and dynamic relationship in the contemporary world. He stressed that Sports have the power to shape culture and identity and social relationships. Sports and games are influenced by broader societal trends and issues, he said and added that one of the key ways in which sports intersect with society is the way in which they reflect and reinforce cultural values and norms. He noted that physical activities help promote physical fitness, team spirit, unity and discipline. He also noted that education is not just for the accumulation of bookish knowledge, but it is a tool for problem-solving and enlightenment.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Over 7754 students and research scholars received their degrees in person and in absentia.Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, the State youth welfare and sports development minister Udayanidhi Stalin, the University vice-chancellor Professor M Sundar and several others participated in the convocation function.</span><br />