ICAR–IARI Hosts Central Zone Zonal Sports Meet 2025 with Enthusiastic Participation from 13 ICAR Institutions

12–15 December 2025, New Delhi

ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, successfully hosted the ICAR Central Zone Zonal Sports Meet 2025 from 12-15 December 2025, showcasing vibrant sporting spirit and enthusiastic participation from athletes representing 13 ICAR institutions across the Central Zone.

The Sports Meet was inaugurated on 12 December 2025 graced by Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Chairperson, Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR–IARI, presiding over the function.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Sanjay Kumar highlighted the critical role of sports and physical activities in fostering discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and physical fitness among ICAR personnel. He emphasized that regular engagement in sports significantly contributes to mental well-being, overall personality development, and improved work efficiency, thereby nurturing a healthy and positive organizational culture.

Presiding over the programme, Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao reiterated ICAR–IARI’s long-standing commitment to promoting sports, fitness, and wellness as integral components of institutional life, alongside excellence in agricultural research and academics. He encouraged participants to uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship and to carry these values into their professional and personal lives.

The valedictory ceremony, held on 15 December 2025, was graced by Dr M. L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) & Director General, (ICAR), as the Chief Guest, and presided over by Dr Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR–IARI and Organising Chairman of the event.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Jat congratulated the participants, winners, and organizing team for the smooth and successful conduct of the Sports Meet. He emphasized that sports play a vital role in building resilience, leadership qualities, team spirit, and camaraderie within the ICAR fraternity, complementing scientific excellence by promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

The Organising Secretary informed that a total of 976 players from ICAR Central Zone institutes participated in the meet, competing in 18 athletics events and 21 team events. The high standards of sportsmanship, coordination, and enthusiasm displayed by all participating teams throughout the competition were appreciated.

The event concluded with the distribution of prizes and certificates to the winners, followed by a vote of thanks to all participating teams, officials, volunteers, and support staff for their contributions to the grand success of the meet. ICAR–IARI emerged as the overall champion of the Central Zone Zonal Sports Meet 2025.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi)