Shillong, Feb10: The AIU East Zone Inter University Handball Tournament 2025–26 at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) Sports Complex was inaugurated by Sports Minister Wailadmiki Shylla on Tuesday, marking the commencement of a major inter-university sporting championship under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
The tournament brings together participation from nearly 50 universities, with around 75 teams from across the East Zone competing in the championship.
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 inaugural programme featured AIU and University Flag Hoisting, a vibrant March Past by participating university contingents.
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 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 said, “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.”
Also present at the event were Mathew Kenneth Makdoh, member of District Council, KHADC; 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.
