Patna: The state-level sports and literary-cultural competition ‘Umang-2026’ was inaugurated on Saturday at the Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna, marking the beginning of a six-day festival for students from government engineering colleges and polytechnic institutes across Bihar. The event was launched by state science and technology minister Sunil Kumar in the presence of senior officials from the Department of Science, Technology and Technical Education.
Speaking at the inauguration, the minister said the competition, held annually since the 2023–24 academic session, aims to provide a structured platform for co-curricular activities in technical institutions. He said initiatives such as Umang help students build discipline, teamwork, leadership skills and self-confidence, complementing their technical training and supporting their overall development.
Sunil Kumar also highlighted the state government’s recent focus on sports and youth programmes, including the construction of new stadiums, hosting of national and international events, and schemes such as “Medal Lao, Naukri Pao” to recognise sporting talent. Umang-2026, he added, reflects the government’s broader vision to nurture talent and create equal opportunities for students across Bihar.
Departmental secretary Pratima said the competition follows a three-tier structure, starting at the institutional level and progressing through divisional rounds before reaching the state finals. This year, state-level events for polytechnic institutes are scheduled from February 7 to 9, followed by engineering colleges from February 10 to 12.
Sports competitions are being held at the Patliputra Sports Complex, while literary and cultural events are taking place at Government Polytechnic, Gulzarbagh. Around 900 students and 400 teachers from both polytechnic and engineering institutions are participating in sports events, with an additional 200 students from each group competing in literary and cultural activities.
Director Ahmad Mahmood said Umang has given co-curricular activities a structured and competitive identity in technical institutions. He added that coordination among participating colleges, nodal officers and organising committees has helped create a disciplined and positive environment for students, while enriching their learning and cultural experience.
