Prof. Achyuta Samanta got felicitated by AIU President for visionary Leadership and Contributions to University Sports.
KIIT-Deemed to be University proudly inaugurated the All IndiaInter-University Athletics Championship 2024 on December 26, 2024. The prestigious event, running from 26th -29thDecember,2024, has attracted over 15,000 student-athletes from more than 600 universities across India, marking a significant milestone in the country’s sporting landscape and reinforcing KIIT’s reputation as a key hub for sports development.
The grand opening ceremony, held at KIIT Athletics Stadium, was graced by Prof. Vinaya Kumar Pathak, Hon’ble President of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi, as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by a distinguished guests including Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor of KIIT-DU; Prof. Deepak Kumar Behera, Vice Chancellor of KISS – Deemed to be University, Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar, KIIT- Deemed to be University, Other prominent dignitaries and sports leaders were also present, making it a momentous occasion.
Dr.Gaganendu Dash provided an overview of the championship schedule and emphasized its importance in shaping the future of athletics in India.
In his address, Prof. Pathak lauded and Prof. (Dr.) Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, for his visionary leadership in establishing world-class sports infrastructure and his steadfast dedication to advancing sports at both the national and international levels. He expressed his admiration that AIU is taking pride by honouring Prof. Samanta for relentless efforts in fostering a robust sporting culture, which has significantly contributed to the development of Indian athletics.
Prof. Pathak also celebrated the AIU’s centenary year, highlighting the remarkable transformation in university sports across the country. He pointed out the Indian team’s outstanding performance at the World University Games (WUG) 2023 in Chengdu, China, where India clinched 26 medals, surpassing the previous total of 19 medals accumulated across all previous editions of the WUG. This achievement, Prof. Pathak noted, was a testament to the growing strength and potential of Indian university sports.
He specifically acknowledged Prof. Samanta’s pivotal role in ensuring the Indian team’s participation in the 2023 WUG. Prof. Samanta’s proactive measures, including facilitating the deposit of registration fees and organizing training camps at KIIT, were instrumental in ensuring the Indian contingent’s success on the global stage. To further show his support, Prof. Pathak wore a KIIT T-shirt, symbolizing his solidarity with KIIT & KISS.
The inauguration featured a ceremonial Olympic torch-lighting, symbolizing the spirit of competition and unity. The Olympic torch was passed on by Prof. Pathak to Ms. Srabani Nanda, an Olympian, to mark the official commencement of the championship.
The All India Inter-University Athletics Championship, supported by AIU, serves as a vital platform for young athletes to showcase their talent, gain valuable exposure, and refine their skills. With over 15,000 athletes participating, this year’s championship promises to be an exhilarating display of athletic excellence.
It is set to inspire the next generation of athletes, with KIIT continuing its journey as a beacon of sports excellence in India.