Valedictory Function brings 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet at IIT Bhubaneswar to a Grand Fitting Closure

21st Dec, 2019 Bhubaneswar: IIT Bhubaneswar successfully conducted the mega extravaganza 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet– between 14th to 21st Dec 2019 at the greenfield sports complex with a sense of style and grandeur. This is for the first time in the history of Inter IIT, a second generation IIT is co-hosting the event and in this perspective, it assumes a lot of historical significance. Shri. Tusharkanti Behera, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), E & IT, Sports & Youth Services, Govt. of Odisha was the Chief Guest on the occasion. The event was presided over by Prof. R.V. Raja Kumar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar.

“It was a courageous step and exciting to co-host the 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet, the first ever to be co-hosted by a 2nd generation IIT. I am happy that the 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet was organized in high standards and matching participation from the participants with enhanced vigour and enthusiasm. The Sports Meet 2019 already witnessed a grand opening by Shri. Pratap Chandra Sarangi, Hon’ble Union Minister and Ms Dutee Chand being present on the occasion. 22 of the 23 IIT’s participated in the event. As the Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, I got the opportunity and planned the sports infrastructure to be of Greenfield and cater to host the major sports event such as the 54th Inter-IIT sports meet. What I am seeing today is a realization of what I imagined 3 years back and it is immensely satisfying. Today on the successful completion of the co-hosting of the 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet, I would like to congratulate all participating Institutions and teams for the enthusiasm and feel at home expressions they showcased. I am happy that all the participating teams made use of this wonderful opportunity to interact with the rest, put across their best talent and spirit of sportsmanship This Sports Meet in particular has brought the students, faculty members and staff of all IITs together. Lastly before I conclude, I would like to thank Shri. Tusharkanti Behera, Hon’ble Minister for taking time out from his busy schedule and gracing the valedictory function”, said Prof. R.V. Raja Kumar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar.

Shri. Tusharkanti Behera further encouraged students to take sports seriously as it was sincerely being recognized as an important aspect of attaining success and creating a healthy mind, soul and body. He also talked about youth empowerment and highlighted the importance of sports to shape up ones personality in a holistic manner-bringing a synergy between mind, body and spirit. He said that for making this world a heaven, sportsperson spirit is important.

The valedictory ceremony began with the welcome address by Prof. V.R. Pedireddi, Dean Student Affairs and Chairman, Organizing Committee for 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet 2019, IIT Bhubaneswar. The event also marked some great cultural performances in the form of Odissi dance by Ms. Aruna Mohanty. This was followed by the result declaration of the winners in their respective categories. The event saw active participation from Deans, Faculty, staff, students, family of the campusites. The function ended with vote of thanks by the Dr. Sankarsan Mohapatra, Convenor, Organizing Committee, 54th Inter IIT Sports Meet 2019.