NIT Raipur hosts opening ceremony of annual sports fest SAMAR 2025

Raipur (Team Newsbuddy): National Institute of Technology (NIT) Raipur’s Sports Committee – Team Shaurya, officially launched its much-awaited four-day annual sports festival – SAMAR 2025, scheduled to take place from 23rd January to 26th January 2025. SAMAR 2025 is recognized as the largest sports event in Central India, showcasing a wide range of sporting competitions. The grand opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Dr. N. V. Ramana Rao, Director, NIT Raipur, as the Chief Guest and Dr. G. D. Ramtekkar, Dean (P&D) Guest of Honour and Dr. Nitin Jain, Dean (SW), NIT Raipur. The event was guided by Dr. H. K. Narang, Dr. Alfia Bano, and Dr. S D V S S Varma Siruvuri Faculty, In-charge’s, Shaurya. The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome extended to the esteemed guests. This was followed by a brief introduction to SAMAR and Team Shaurya which set an enthusiastic tone for the upcoming events.

Dr. Nitin Jain highlighted the crucial role of sports in inculcating discipline, improving mental and physical health, thereby, relieving stress. He extended his gratitude to Dr. N. V. Ramana Rao for his unwavering support and guidance. He motivated participants to give their best performance, alongside giving ample respect to the opposing team. Dr. G. D. Ramtekkar, shared insights on the essence of “Samar” which signifies battle, urging students to exhibit a fighting spirit and a never-give-up attitude. He also outlined future development plans for enhancing sports facilities and extended his best wishes to all participants.

During his address, Dr. N. V. Ramana Rao, during his address, stressed the importance of physical fitness and the role of sports in the overall development of an individual. He shared that active participation in sports activities is intertwined with the Fit India Movement. Furthermore, he pointed out that sports activities help in improving mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety through the release of endorphins. He emphasized the significance of teamwork, leadership and time management skills that sports instill, paving the way for promising career opportunities.

Dr. Alfia Bano, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of the entire organising team. She conveyed deep gratitude to the Director for his encouragement and to Team Shaurya for its resolute efforts. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the torch, marking the beginning of the thrilling sporting festival. The event proceeded with the flag hoisting and the parade of teams, showcasing an inspiring spirit of teamwork and determination.

In these four-day-long sports Maha Kumbh, games like badminton, cricket, football, chess, table tennis etc. will be played in which apart from the students at the institute, students from other institutes will also participate.