The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently kicked off its 15th All India IMD Sports Meet 2025 at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Balewadi, Pune, to commemorate its 150th anniversary. The event, which runs from February 17 to 20, 2025, was inaugurated by Dr. M. Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology, who highlighted the importance of sportsmanship in promoting unity, overcoming challenges, and fostering equality across disciplines.
A Platform for Employee Engagement and Athletic Excellence
The sports meet has garnered enthusiastic participation from various institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), including the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), and IMD. This annual event not only provides a platform for IMD employees to showcase their athletic skills but also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, physical fitness, and camaraderie in the workplace.
Featuring a range of sports disciplines such as badminton, carrom, chess, table tennis, cricket, shooting ball, and volleyball, the 15th edition of the IMD Sports Meet aims to promote a healthy work-life balance while strengthening bonds among participants. The inaugural ceremony witnessed a significant turnout of over 600 participants, including representatives from MoES institutes, IMD officials, retired personnel, and enthusiastic spectators, setting the stage for an exciting series of competitions in the days to come.
Prime Minister Modi’s Commemoration and Vision for IMD
In a separate event on January 14, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 150th Foundation Day of the India Meteorological Department at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. During the celebration, he praised IMD’s 150-year legacy as a symbol of India’s scientific progress and modern technology. Commemorative initiatives included the release of a postage stamp and coin highlighting IMD’s achievements, as well as the unveiling of a vision document outlining the department’s future trajectory towards 2047, coinciding with India’s centennial of independence.
PM Modi also highlighted IMD’s engagement with youth through initiatives like the National Meteorological Olympiad, aimed at sparking interest in meteorology among thousands of students. These efforts not only celebrate IMD’s rich history but also pave the way for a future generation of meteorologists and scientists to continue the department’s legacy of service and innovation.
As the IMD Sports Meet unfolds in Pune, participants and spectators alike can look forward to a fulfilling experience that combines friendly competition, athletic prowess, and a celebration of the department’s enduring legacy. Amidst the cheers and camaraderie, the event stands as a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together and fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
With the spirit of sportsmanship driving the event forward, the IMD Sports Meet promises to be a memorable celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and the enduring legacy of the India Meteorological Department. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your gear, and get ready to witness the thrill of competition and the joy of camaraderie at this historic sporting event.
