ICAR-North Zone Sports tourney begins at NDRI

The ICAR North Zone Sports Tournament has commenced at the ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), featuring 829 male and 82 female athletes from 24 institutes of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

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The four-day event was inaugurated by Dr Raghavendra Bhatta, deputy director general (animal science), ICAR, who urged participants to compete in the true spirit of sportsmanship. He emphasised the importance of health, noting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and stating health should be considered the real wealth. Dr Bhatta hoisted the ICAR flag and declared the games open.

In his address, Dr Dheer Singh, the director and vice-chancellor of ICAR-NDRI, highlighted the diversity of events, including 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races, 5000m cycle race, shot put, discus throw, javelin throw, long jump, high jump, volleyball, cricket, basketball, kabaddi, badminton and table tennis. He said these would be held in men’s singles, women’s singles, doubles and mixed categories.

Dr Singh also spoke on the significance of physical activity for health, encouraging players to embody sportsmanship. He praised the efforts behind the construction of the institute’s sports complex, which, he said, was a challenge but was completed with dedication by the institute’s officers and staff.

The opening ceremony featured a cultural performance by NDRI-Deemed University students. In the inaugural 800m race, Rajendra Prasad Meena of VPKS Almora claimed first place, followed by Virendra Singh from CPRI Shimla in second, and Anil Thakur from NDRI Karnal in third.

Dr Rajan Sharma, joint director (research), encouraged players to draw inspiration from sportsmanship and apply team spirit in all aspects of life.

The tournament continues until the end of the week, offering both competitive action and an opportunity for participants to promote physical and mental wellbeing.