The Staff Club of CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow inaugurated the 53rd Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Memorial Tournament (SSBMT-2025), Indoor Zonal-II, amidst great enthusiasm and sporting spirit. The tournament, being held from 31st October to 3rd November 2025, brings together players and sports enthusiasts from various CSIR laboratories across the northern region to celebrate fitness, teamwork, and camaraderie.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Mr. Suhas L.Y. (IAS), Secretary, Sports and Youth Welfare & Director General, Youth Welfare & P.R.D., Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Paralympic Badminton World Champion, as the Chief Guest.

In his address, Mr. Suhas shared his inspiring journey as a para-athlete and motivated participants to adopt sports as a way of life. He emphasized that “sports not only build character but also teach perseverance, leadership, and the value of fair play.”

The function was presided over by Dr. Radha Rangarajan, Director, CSIR-CDRI, in the esteemed presence of Dr. Prabodh Kumar Trivedi (Director, CSIR-CIMAP), Dr. Ajit Kumar Shasany (Director, CSIR-NBRI), and Dr. Bhaskar Narayan (Director, CSIR-IITR).

In her presidential remarks, Dr. Rangarajan congratulated the organizing team for their efforts in reviving the spirit of inter-laboratory sportsmanship. She said, “The Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Memorial Tournament is not just a competition — it is a tribute to the values of dedication, resilience, and unity that define CSIR.”

The tournament features popular indoor games such as badminton, table tennis, chess, and carrom, offering a platform for CSIR personnel to showcase their sporting excellence and foster a sense of togetherness beyond laboratories.

The inaugural event concluded with a warm vote of thanks by Mr. Amit Kumar, Organizing Secretary, who acknowledged the support and participation of all CSIR institutions and staff clubs. The matches will continue over the next three days, promising exciting contests and memorable sporting moments.

****

NKR/AK

(Release ID: 2185311) Visitor Counter : 199