SHILLONG, FEB 10: Minister in-charge Sports and Youth Affairs Wailadmiki Shylla on Tuesday inaugurated the AIU East Zone Inter University Handball Tournament 2025–26 at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) Sports Complex, marking the commencement of a major inter-university sporting championship under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

The prestigious tournament has brought together participation from nearly 50 universities, with around 75 teams from across the East Zone competing in the championship.”

The event was further dignified by the presence of Mathew Kenneth Makdoh, Member of District Council, KHADC, Shillong; Narayan Bhuyan, eminent sports personality from Assam; Bobby L. Nongbet, District Sports Officer, Ri-Bhoi; Dipa Choudhury, Joint Secretary, Assam Olympic Association; and Gautam Choudhury, Associate Joint Secretary, Assam Olympic Association.

The inaugural programme featured AIU and University Flag Hoisting, a vibrant March Past by participating university contingents.

Addressing the gathering, Shylla said: “Sports are not merely competition; they are a powerful instrument for character building, leadership, and national integration. Institutions like USTM, by hosting such prestigious inter-university events, are creating platforms where youth learn discipline, teamwork, and excellence beyond classrooms.”

The chief guest kicked off the game and the first match, which was played by Berhampur University, Odisha and Banaras Hindu University.

Following the ceremony, an interaction session was held at the Central Auditorium, where the Hon’ble Minister engaged with students from Medical, Ayurvedic, and Nursing streams, sharing insights on health, leadership, and youth responsibility. The visit concluded with lunch hosted by the university.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chancellor of USTM remarked:
“USTM believes in holistic education where academic excellence goes hand in hand with sports and youth development. Hosting the AIU East Zone Tournament is a matter of pride and responsibility, as it strengthens inter-university collaboration and nurtures the sporting spirit among young minds across the region.”

The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya has expressed immense pride in its scientists’ and student researchers’ achievements, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a robust research culture that promotes innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and societal impact. These accomplishments collectively reinforce USTM’s position as a leading institution contributing meaningfully to India’s scientific progress and the global knowledge economy.

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