CM Soren to Open South Asian Athletics Championship in Ranchi

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will inaugurate the 4th South Asian (SAAF) Senior Athletics Championships 2025 on October 24 at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi. The three-day international event marks a major moment for Jharkhand, which is hosting this prestigious championship for the first time.

Six Nations, 300 Athletes, and Global Focus on Ranchi

Around 300 athletes and 150 technical officials from six South Asian countries India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka will participate in the championship, jointly organised by the Department of Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Jharkhand, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), and the Jharkhand Athletics Association.

“This is a proud moment for Jharkhand. Hosting such a major international competition reflects our growing capacity and commitment to sports excellence,” said Shekhar Jamuar, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs.

State-Level Coordination and CM-Led Monitoring

Preparations are in their final stage. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has formed a high-level monitoring committee to oversee arrangements and ensure seamless coordination between departments. District administrations and the Ranchi district sports office are also involved in logistical and security preparations.

Dr. Madhukant Pathak, Secretary of the Jharkhand Athletics Association, said, “Accommodation, transport, and catering arrangements for all delegations have been finalised. Teams will begin arriving from October 21, and practice sessions are scheduled for October 23.”

Stadium Upgrades and Security Setup

The Morabadi stadium has been refurbished to meet international standards. It now includes an upgraded athletics track, warm-up zones, a medical and doping control centre, a dedicated media room, and a central control room for 24-hour monitoring. Tight security measures are being put in place, with coordination between local police, district administration, and the sports department.

Cultural Showcase and Free Public Entry

The inaugural ceremony on October 24 will feature a vibrant cultural program showcasing Jharkhand’s folk music, dance, and art forms. The event aims to blend sportsmanship with the state’s rich cultural heritage.

The organisers have announced free public entry for spectators. “We want citizens to come out in large numbers and cheer for the athletes. This is as much a celebration of Jharkhand’s spirit as it is of sports,” Jamuar said.

Media and Technical Arrangements

Separate enclosures have been set up for media coverage, with designated zones for photographers and interview interactions. Eight accredited photographers will have on-field access. However, video recording devices will not be permitted to ensure compliance with broadcast and security norms.

Historic Moment for Jharkhand

This is the third time India is hosting the SAAF Athletics Championship, earlier editions were held in Kochi in 1997 and 2008 but it’s Ranchi’s first turn as host. Officials believe it will enhance the state’s image as a capable venue for major international sporting events and inspire young athletes across Jharkhand.

“This championship will put Jharkhand on the global athletics map,” said Dr. Pathak. “It’s not just an event; it’s a statement of confidence in Jharkhand’s ability to deliver world-class sports infrastructure.”