Rourkela, Oct 24: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela proudly inaugurated the All India Inter NIT Sports Meet 2025–26 at the Dilip Tirkey Stadium, marking a historic milestone with over 1,200 athletes from 26 NITs and IIEST Shibpur, officials said.

This three-day national sporting extravaganza, running from October 24 to 26, showcases spirited competition in Volleyball, Swimming, and Kho-Kho across both men's and women's categories.

This year’s edition sets a new benchmark for participation, making it the largest Inter NIT sports gathering ever. Events are being held at premier venues including the P. T. Usha Sports Complex, Swimming Pool Complex, and the Kho-Kho Field near Sachin Tendulkar Stadium on the NITR campus.

The meet is coordinated by Prof. Mohd Khalid Gul and Prof. Aditya Kumar Das, Vice Presidents of the Games and Sports Society, along with Mr. C. Alagesan (SAS Officer, NITR) and a dedicated team of student volunteers. Mr. Dhanesh Rambeth, SAS Officer from NIT Calicut, serves as the official observer.

In his inaugural address, Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director of NIT Rourkela, emphasized the values of integrity, fitness, and camaraderie that sports instill. Prof. Rajeev Kumar Panda, President of the Student Activity Centre, praised the scale and coordination of the event, while Prof. Niranjan Panda (Dean, Student Affairs) and Prof. Rohan Dhiman (Registrar) encouraged athletes to compete with dignity and teamwork.

Participating institutes include NITs from across India—Agartala to Warangal—alongside IIEST Shibpur, reflecting the pan-India spirit of the event.

With unmatched enthusiasm, world-class facilities, and a record-breaking turnout, NIT Rourkela is set to make this edition of the Inter NIT Sports Meet a landmark celebration of athletic excellence, unity, and youthful energy.