The 3rd National Curling Championship 2024, a landmark event in the realm of Indian sports, was successfully organized from October 3 to 5, 2024. This championship was spearheaded by the Curling Federation of India (CFI) in collaboration with the Government of Puducherry, the Religare Group, and the Global Trade & Technology Council India (GTTCI). The event garnered significant attention and participation from numerous ambassadors and diplomats, underscoring the vital role of sports in fostering international cooperation and camaraderie.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The championship officially commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony on October 3, 2024, attended by dignitaries and representatives from various nations. Dr. Rashmi Saluja, the President of the Curling Federation of India, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing CFI’s relentless efforts to popularize curling across India. She highlighted the increasing engagement of global participants and the promising trajectory of the sport within the country, which is gaining recognition on the international stage.
The opening ceremony featured notable speeches from the Sports Minister of Puducherry, who expressed support for sports development, and various esteemed ambassadors who shared their excitement for the championship. Among the distinguished guests were Thiru. A. Namassivayam, the Hon’ble Minister for Home, Sports, and Education of Puducherry; Thiru. Annibal Kennedy, Member of Legislative Assembly; Thiru Dr. Sharat Chauhan, IAS, Chief Secretary of Puducherry; and Dr. Gaurav Gupta, Founder President of GTTCI. Their presence underscored the importance of this event in fostering sportsmanship and international relations.
As part of the ceremony, several ambassadors were honored by the Sports Minister, Dr. Rashmi, Dr. Gaurav, and Mr. Rakesh Asthana. Notable attendees included H.E. Mr. Jagannath Sami (High Commissioner of Fiji), H.E. Adv. Lebohang Valentine Mochaba (High Commissioner of Lesotho), and H.E. Mr. Haymandoyal Dillum (High Commissioner of Mauritius). Their participation not only elevated the event’s stature but also emphasized the diplomatic significance of sports as a medium for collaboration.
State Hosted Dinner
Following the opening ceremony, a State Hosted Dinner was organized, providing an intimate setting for discussions between government officials and diplomats. This dinner aimed to explore global agendas for cooperation and to build a roadmap for future partnerships. The Chief Secretary of Puducherry, Dr. Sharat Chauhan, led the discussions, engaging with diplomats on various topics, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The presence of the Sports Secretary and Sports Director further enriched the discussions, focusing on how sports can serve as a catalyst for international collaboration.
Auroville Visit
On October 4, participants were treated to a memorable visit to Auroville, a unique township dedicated to human unity and sustainable living. The delegation, which included prominent diplomats and business leaders, explored the iconic Matrimandir, known as the “soul of Auroville.” They participated in a meditation session that underscored the township’s emphasis on spirituality and community living. Additionally, the delegates surveyed the Matrimandir Lake, a remarkable project aimed at boosting groundwater levels in surrounding villages and promoting environmental sustainability. This visit not only offered a glimpse into innovative ecological practices but also facilitated discussions on sustainability initiatives that could benefit both India and participating nations.
Business Meeting with Chief Secretary
A significant business meeting took place at the Chief Secretariat of Puducherry, where the Chief Secretary, Dr. Sharat Chauhan, led discussions on enhancing international cooperation across various sectors. The meeting served as a platform for exploring potential collaborations in culture and tourism, as well as opportunities for joint ventures in the sea economy, particularly between Mauritius and India. Diplomats extended invitations to visit Mongolia, expressing interest in cultural exchange and mutual growth in trade relations. This meeting exemplified the importance of dialogue and collaboration in forging robust partnerships that transcend borders.
Closing Ceremony
The championship concluded on October 5 with a grand closing ceremony, which was honored by the Chief Minister of Puducherry as the chief guest. The ceremony was a celebration of the spirit of competition and camaraderie that curling embodies. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries delivered heartfelt speeches, expressing their gratitude to the CFI, Religare, and GTTCI for their concerted efforts in promoting international sports initiatives.
The event witnessed outstanding performances, particularly from the Puducherry and Haryana teams, who showcased remarkable skill and sportsmanship. Their dedication to the sport was recognized with accolades, further motivating future participation in curling. The championship was hailed as a resounding success, not only for its athletic achievements but also for its role in strengthening diplomatic ties through shared cultural and sporting values.
In summary, the 3rd National Curling Championship 2024 not only showcased the prowess of athletes but also reinforced the notion that sports serve as a powerful conduit for international diplomacy and cooperation. The collaborative efforts of the Curling Federation of India, the Government of Puducherry, and GTTCI were instrumental in making this event a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.
