ICAR South Zone Sports Tournament Inaugurated at Secunderabad

10 February 2026, Hyderabad

The ICAR South Zone Sports Tournament was inaugurated today at the RSC Grounds, Secunderabad. The four-day tournament, being organized by the ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, will be held from 10 to 13 February 2026.

Dr. B. Venkateswarlu, Former Vice-Chancellor of Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and formally declared the tournament open. In his inaugural address, he emphasized that teamwork and sportsmanship are essential qualities in sports and equally vital in research within ICAR institutions. He stated that participation in sports promotes a healthy lifestyle and encouraged players to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship even beyond the playing field.

Ms. N. Bhavani Sri, IAS, Secretary of the National Turmeric Board, attended as Guest of Honour. She lauded ICAR personnel for their significant contributions to the nation’s agricultural development and encouraged participants to create lasting memories during the tournament. She highlighted that such events provide a unique opportunity for personnel across all cadres and hierarchies to compete and interact on a common platform.

Dr. Gopal Lal, Acting Director, ICAR-NAARM, addressed the participants and underscored the importance of sports in fostering physical fitness and mental well-being, contributing to enhanced professional performance. He advised the players to maintain discipline and exemplify good sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

Earlier, Dr. K. Srinivas, Organizing Secretary, ICAR-NAARM, welcomed the dignitaries and participants.

The tournament features a wide range of sporting events, including athletics, badminton, volleyball, basketball, cricket, football, carrom, table tennis, cycling, and kabaddi. Approximately 885 players from 28 ICAR institutions across the South Zone are participating in the event, comprising 750 men and 135 women athletes.

The ICAR South Zone Sports Tournament aims to promote camaraderie, teamwork, and a spirit of healthy competition among ICAR personnel while encouraging physical fitness and overall well-being.

(Source: ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management Rajendranaagar, Hyderabad)