The Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Swimming Pool Complex, popularly known as Tal Katora Swimming Pool, came alive with energy as the Inter Ministry Swimming Meet 2025–26 kicked off this week. Organized by the Central Civil Services Cultural and Sports Board (CCSCSB), DoPT, the event attracted enthusiastic participation from over 14 ministries and departments, showcasing talent, speed, and competitive spirit among central government employees.
After two days of intense competition, the Cabinet Secretariat emerged as the overall winner, while the Railways and Ministry of Finance shared the runner-up spot in a closely contested finish.
The meet was graced by chief guest Shri K. Murugan, a 1990-batch UPSC officer from AIR, who brought his impressive athletic background to inspire participants. A former college middle-distance runner, Murugan has won gold in the National Masters 800m, represented India at the Asian Masters in Kitakami, and qualified for the Boston Marathon. “Sporting discipline isn’t confined to youth or tracks, it’s a flame we must keep alive beyond our offices and files,” Murugan told the gathering.
Men’s Races Thrill the Crowd
The men’s competitions were fast-paced and competitive. Rudraksh Kumar of the Finance Ministry sprinted to gold in the 50m freestyle at 0:26.62, followed by Virat Shokeen from Rajya Sabha (0:30.92) and Swarup Chakravorty of the Cabinet Secretariat (0:31.41).
In the 50m breaststroke, Harshit Narang from the I&B Ministry claimed gold at 0:39.64, with Sahil Chopra of the Finance Ministry second at 0:39.92 and Swarup Chakravorty third at 0:45.36. Narang also triumphed in the 100m breaststroke at 1:31.14, while Kamal Jeet from Railways earned silver at 1:46.24 and Shubham from Finance Ministry took bronze at 2:22.19.
Women’s Events Highlight Emerging Talent
In the women’s category, Baishali Kanojia of the Cabinet Secretariat shone, winning gold in both the 50m freestyle at 1:00.62 and the 100m freestyle at 1:21.99. Ranjeeta Shami from the Health Ministry and Vanshika Gupta of the Ministry of Defence completed the podium in both events, securing silver and bronze respectively.
Smooth Execution and Celebrations
The seamless coordination of the meet was credited to convenor Shri Brijesh Pant (AIR), whose careful planning ensured every event ran without delay. At the prize-giving ceremony, his efforts earned resounding applause. “It’s all about creating a platform where talent can shine without a hitch,” he said. “Seeing these athletes push their limits reminds us that competition builds not just winners, but a stronger community.”
The Inter Ministry Swimming Meet 2025–26 not only celebrated sporting excellence but also strengthened camaraderie among central government employees, leaving a lasting impression on participants and spectators alike.
