Patiala, February 2: Royal scions, led by Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh, joined the faculty, students and alumni of Yadavindra Public School (YPS) during its platinum jubilee celebrations here today.The CM, also the school patron, was welcomed by pupils of the institution established by his father, Maharaja Yadavindra Singh. He was accompanied by his wife, Preneet Kaur, and former Union Minister Dr Karan Singh.
The day witnessed a hockey match between former and present students, a performance by comedian Kapil Sharma and dinner hosted by the Aitchisonian Yadavandrian Old Students Association (AYOSA).
Capt Amarinder’s brother Malwinder Singh, chairman of the school’s Board of Governors, recalled that the school was envisioned by their father during Partition. He said one of the oldest alumni, Justice SS Sodhi, who passed out in 1949, had attended the celebrations yesterday.
“Even as the school is ranked among the best, we will continue to strive for more progress and excellence,” he said.Dr Karan Singh, a YPS alumnus, stressed the importance of education in liberating young minds from ignorance, fundamentalism and arrogance.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Build social skills through teamwork, which alone can help you accomplish tasks,” he added.Brig Sukhjit Singh (retd), a scion of the former princely state of Kapurthala, lauded the YPS’ role in producing outstanding personalities in various fields.
The school Director, Major Gen Sanjiv Varma (retd), read out the annual report, highlighting the institution’s achievements in academics, sports and extra-curricular activities.
Later, Dr Karan Singh, accompanied by the CM, inaugurated the Nalagarh squash courts, built in memory of Raja Surendra Singh, in the YPS stadium.
Among the others present were former Law Minister and senior Congress leader Ashwani Kumar; Life President, Indian Olympic Association, Raja Randhir Singh; and Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu.
Source Tribune India
