Ranchi: India is poised to script history as it hosts the 4th South Asian Senior Athletics Championships 2025 from October 24 to 26 at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Morabadi, Ranchi.
Returning after more than a decade, this prestigious continental meet brings together top athletes from six South Asian nations — India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka. The host nation, a traditional powerhouse in the region, aims to reaffirm its dominance and build on its legacy, having topped the medal tally in the 2008 Kochi edition with 57 medals, including 24 golds.
India’s contingent features a dynamic mix of seasoned performers and rising stars.
Among men, national champions Sandeep Singh (200m, PB: 20.95s) and Prakash Gadade (800m, PB: 1:47.14s) will lead the track events, supported by Sunil Dawar (1500m) and Prince Kumar (5000m) in the middle- and long-distance races. In field events, all eyes will be on Mohd Atta Sazid (Asian Junior bronze, long jump – 7.79m), Samardeep Gill (shot put – 19.82m), and Damneet Singh (hammer throw – 69.87m).
The women’s squad is equally strong. Sprinter Sakshi Chavan (200m – 23.78s) and middle-distance runner Amandeep Kaur (800m – 2:03.69s) headline the track events, while Seema (5000m – 15:30.70s), fresh off a silver at the 2025 World University Games, adds experience and form. Promising jumpers Reet Rathor (high jump – 1.81m) and Bhavani Yadav (long jump – 6.44m) bring youthful energy, while throwers Yogita (shot put – 16.52m) and Seema (discus – 58.32m) are strong medal contenders.
Expressing confidence ahead of the championship, Madhukant Pathak, General Secretary of the Jharkhand Olympic Association (JOA), stated: “We are optimistic about maintaining our top position once again. Nearly half of our team comprises young athletes, reflecting India’s focus on developing the next generation of stars. We are confident of winning over 25 gold medals this year.”
He emphasized India’s robust athletic structure, saying: “Our success is rooted in strong grassroots development. With over 30 staff members, 200 coaches, and nearly 7,000 athletes in the system — including district-level players — India’s athletics foundation is solid. Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra is a shining example of this ecosystem.”
Organised jointly by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and the Jharkhand Olympic Association, the event is being held in collaboration with the Government of Jharkhand. Over 80 Indian athletes will compete across 37 medal events, with Ranchi fully prepared to host with world-class facilities, athlete-friendly arrangements, and enthusiastic local support.
Set against the scenic and culturally rich backdrop of Jharkhand, the championship not only celebrates athletic excellence but also echoes the spirit of regional unity and international friendship. With a legacy rooted in sports and tradition, Jharkhand is ready to deliver a memorable championship that unites nations and inspires future generations.