Dhaka, Oct. 23 -- President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday stressed the need to expand sports facilities across the country to protect young people from drug addiction, excessive mobile phone use and despair, saying sports play a vital role in building a healthy and disciplined nation.

He made the remarks while inaugurating the Arafat Rahman Koko 18th National Summer Athletics Competition 2026 at the National Stadium in Dhaka by releasing balloons and festoons in the evening.

The president said sports teach young people discipline, perseverance and self-confidence, while expanding access to playgrounds and sporting activities is essential to protect the younger generation from destructive influences.

"Without sports, there is no...