India Clinches Maiden Squash World Cup Title
In a historic achievement, India has won its first-ever SDAT Squash World Cup, defeating top seeds Hong Kong with a decisive 3-0 victory in Chennai. The Indian team's dominant performance throughout the tournament, which culminated on December 14, saw them not lose a single match. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan extended their congratulations to the team, including players Joshna Chinnappa, Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthil Kumar, and Anahat Singh, highlighting their dedication and the pride they brought to the nation. This victory is expected to significantly boost the popularity of squash among Indian youth.
Record-Breaking Performance at Asian Youth Para Games
Indian para-athletes delivered their most successful campaign to date at the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games, securing a record 56 medals, which included 19 gold, 15 silver, and 22 bronze. The Games, which concluded on December 13, saw outstanding individual performances, such as 18-year-old Bhuvi Agarwal winning three gold medals in the T20 category (long jump, shot put, and 400m race). Baby Sahana Ravi also earned a gold medal in the Class SF-9 (Under 23) category of Para Table Tennis, showcasing India's growing prominence in the sport. India's 99-member contingent competed across eight sports disciplines, demonstrating the nation's commitment to inclusion in sports.
National Sports Awards and Development Initiatives
The contribution to sports development in India was recognized at the Sports Science India Awards and the 3rd CII Sports Business Awards, where Tata Steel received two prestigious national awards. The company was honored with the SSI Sports Development Award for Advancing Sports in India and the Legacy of Excellence in Sports Patronage Award, acknowledging its long-standing efforts in building a robust sports ecosystem. The SSI National Sports Award ceremony also honored 24 top athletes, including members of India's women's Ice Hockey Team, who won a historic bronze at the 2025 IIHF Women's Asia Cup. Table tennis legend Sharath Kamal received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Success in Shooting and Badminton
Indian shooters showcased their prowess at the 68th National Shooting Championships, with Manu Bhaker and Simranpreet Kaur Brar winning gold medals. Raiza Dhillon also achieved remarkable success, securing two gold medals. In badminton, the 2025 Odisha Masters, part of the BWF World Tour, concluded with strong performances from both Indian and international players.
New Sports Initiative and Football Star's Visit
The Chief Minister of Maharashtra launched 'Project Mahadeva,' a new state-level sports development program aimed at encouraging sports activities and nurturing athletic talent across the state. Meanwhile, football legend Lionel Messi is anticipated to arrive in New Delhi for the final leg of his 'GOAT India Tour,' generating considerable excitement among football enthusiasts in the country.