A two-day sports programme for women was organized at Netaji Stadium in Sri Vijaya Puram to mark International Women’s Day, bringing together participants from different parts of the city for athletic and recreational competitions.
The event was conducted on March 7 and 8 by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in association with the Directorate of Education and the Sports Authority of India training centre. The initiative aimed to encourage women’s participation in sports and promote a healthy and active lifestyle across the islands.
Competitions began on March 7 with volleyball matches in the open category and badminton singles contests at the stadium. Women athletes and sports enthusiasts participated in the events, marking the start of the two-day programme.
The following day featured a wider range of athletic competitions for participants across two age categories: 18–30 years and above 30 years. The athletics events included sprint races of 100 metres, 200 metres and 400 metres, as well as an 800-metre race and a 1200-metre walk.
In addition to track events, a 1.6 kilometre cycle race was organized as part of the programme. Participants also competed in recreational races such as a 50-metre back run and a 50-metre sack race, adding a lighter and participatory element to the celebrations.
Team and group activities were also included in the programme. Tug of War, Passing the Ball and Musical Chair competitions drew participation from women across different age groups, creating a lively atmosphere at the stadium throughout the day.
An aerobic and Zumba demonstration was also presented during the programme by members of the Sports and Youth Affairs Zumba class. The demonstration highlighted fitness routines and encouraged participants to adopt regular physical activity as part of their daily lifestyle.
Organizers said the demonstration was intended to promote awareness about the importance of physical fitness while also adding a festive dimension to the Women’s Day celebration.
The closing ceremony of the programme was attended by the Director of Power of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration as the chief guest. The Head of Office from the Directorate of Education was also present during the concluding event.
Winners of the various competitions were presented with gold, silver and bronze medals in recognition of their performances across the different categories.
A large number of participants from Sri Vijaya Puram and nearby areas took part in the competitions over the two days. Officials said the turnout reflected growing interest among women in sports and fitness activities.
The Department of Sports and Youth Affairs stated that such programmes are part of ongoing efforts to encourage greater participation of women in sports and physical activities in the islands. By organizing competitions and fitness demonstrations, the department aims to create more opportunities for women to engage in structured sports events.
Officials indicated that similar initiatives may continue in the future to expand participation and promote sports culture among women and youth across the region.
