Kathmandu, Dec 24 (RSS):   
Minister for Youth and Sports Jagat Bahadur Bishwakarma has said Nepal achieved an expected progress in sports.    
In his address to a programme organised by the Free Students Union (FSU) Ratna Rajya Campus here today to welcome new students, the Minister said Nepal was on the verge of getting international recognition for its progress and achievements in sports.    
"Several developed nations have assimilated and promoted sports as profession, business and industry. Nepal is favorable from every angle including weather and nature for sports activities."    
He went on to say that culture of giving respect to sports and players had been developed and onwards none would have to express regret for the decision to pursue a career in sports.    
As he said the recent 13th South Asian Games (Nepal hosted from December 1-10) caused a significant rise in Nepal's image and reputation.    
 The success in the SAG was possible because of encouragement and motivation that players were given on behalf of the government. "To secure fifty-one gold medals from the single regional event is not a small one," he said, pledging the development of all sorts of infrastructure necessary for players.    
 All Nepal National Independent Student Union (ANNISU) president Ain Mahar described sports as the sole means that Nepal could use to prove its competency in the international arena.    
Campus chief Dr Nirmala Suwal, student leaders RC Lamichhane, Sudesh Parajuli, Arati Lama, Tapendra Shahi and Narayan Sharma applauded the campus for its role and contribution to the educational prosperity.    
Under the campus weeklong constructive programme that kicked off from today, a volleyball tournament, an oratory competition, and a sanitation prgramme will be held, it is said.