Cuttack: The Odisha Association for Rowing & Sculling (OARS), under the aegis of the Rowing Federation of India (RFI), Wednesday announced that Cuttack will host the prestigious 1st All India Indoor Rowing Championship. This landmark event is scheduled to take place at the iconic Jawahar Lal Nehru Indoor Stadium from April 8th to 11th, 2026.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since the establishment of the SAI STC Centre in Jagatpur in 1993, Odisha has emerged as a powerhouse of Indian rowing. The state’s rich aquatic sporting history is highlighted by trailblazers Pratima Puhan and Pramila Prava Minz, who remain the only Indian women rowers to secure an Asian Games medal, winning Bronze in the Coxless Pair event at the 2010 Guangzhou Games.
Owing to consistent elite-level performances, the SAI STC Centre was upgraded to a National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in 2019. The SAl NCOE is providing vital technical support, high-end equipment, and administrative assistance to ensure the championship meets international standards,
Championship Highlights & Scale
Preparations are in full swing for what promises to be a high-octane display of endurance and strength. The championship will see a massive turnout of talent from across the country:
Total Athletes: Approximately 600 competitors (350 Male, 250 Female) •
Home Contingent: Odisha will be represented by a strong 33-member squad (17 girls and 16 boys). Given their rigorous training at the NCOE, the home team is widely expected to dominate the podium and secure a significant medal haul.

  • Staff: 60 Coaches/Managers and 30 National-level officials.
    Event Schedule
  • April 8: Arrival of teams and evening practice sessions.
    April 9: Official practice sessions and the crucial Technical Coaches/Managers meeting for the race draws
  • April 10: Grand Opening Ceremony followed by a full day of competitive races
    April 11: Final rounds of.competition, concluding with the Closing Ceremony and Medal Distribution by distinguished guests
    “Odisha has always been at the forefront of rowing in India. Hosting the first-ever All India Indoor Rowing Championship is a testament to our commitment to the sport,”” said Sh. Binod Das, President of OARS, Amar Jyoti Singh Deo, General Secretary of OARS, added, “We are ready to welcome the nation’s best athletes to Cuttack and are confident our Odisha rowers will make the state proud with their performance.”
    (BINOD DASH) PRESIDENT ORISSA ASSOCIATION FOR ROWING & SCULLING