The Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate was speaking at the HCL Foundation's 'First National Sports MeetSports for Change' here.
"Sports is one of the basic pillars of growing up and it inculcates the spirit of sportsmanship in these young children," he said.
Sharma awarded scholarships supported by the foundation to children from marginalised backgrounds and encouraged them to participate in sports.
More than 300 students, including those from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, participated in the meet.
"HCL has always believed in efforts to strengthen the community. Children learn the value of team building, positive attitude and attain physical and mental strength through sports," Nidhi Pundhir, directorCSR and head HCL Foundation, said.