Odisha state-level inter-varsity competition kicks off at Utkal University

Bhubaneswar: In a spectacular ceremony marked by a torch march from Maa Talpadeshwari temple to the Biju Patnaik Sports Complex, the state-level inter-university competition 2023-24, kicked off at Utkal University here on Thursday.
The event has received support from the Higher Education Department of the Odisha Government and the Odisha Higher Education Council (OHEC).

Vice-chancellor Prof Sabita Acharya officially declared the opening of the inter-university competition, expressing her excitement about the initiative. She commended the state government’s Higher Education Department for organising the Odisha Inter-University Athletic Competition, emphasising its role in fostering a competitive spirit among students. The vice-chancellor envisioned the programme as a catalyst for promoting sportsmanship at the national level and highlighted the importance of sports in skill development, aligning with the principles of the new education policy.

Addressing the gathering, vice-chancellor of Ramadevi Women’s University, Prof Aparajita Chowdhury, underscored the significance of the national education policy in shaping students’ personalities beyond academic pursuits. She encouraged a dedicated attitude, predicting overall improvement for those who embrace hard work.

Olympian Anuradha Biswal, who was also the guest of honour – drawing from her own experiences – reminded the participating students that both victory and defeat are inherent in sports. She emphasised the resilience needed in the face of loss, urging athletes to continue striving for improvement through hard work and practice.

The inaugural event featured a welcome speech by PG Council chairman Prof Navanita Rath, and registrar Dr Kanhucharan Dhir expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks. Dr Bijay Kumar Sundaraya, director of the Sports Council, provided detailed insights into the competition, while Dr Kirti Ranjan Mallick efficiently coordinated the programme.

The competition’s first day witnessed javelin throw and shotput competitions, setting the stage for the forthcoming days. Scheduled to run until February 19, the state-level inter-university competition will be held at Biju Patnaik Multipurpose Stadium and Kalinga Stadium.