The 3rd National Curling Championship 2024, a landmark event in Indian sports, was successfully organized from October 3 to 5, 2024, in Puducherry. The championship was spearheaded by the Curling Federation of India (CFI) in collaboration with the Government of Puducherry. The event attracted significant attention and participation from ambassadors and diplomats, highlighting the vital role of sports in fostering international cooperation and goodwill.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The championship officially commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony on October 3rd, 2024, attended by dignitaries and representatives from various nations. Dr. Rashmi Saluja, President of the Curling Federation of India, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing CFI’s dedicated efforts to promote curling across India. She highlighted the growing global engagement with the sport and India’s promising trajectory on the international curling platform.
The opening ceremony featured addresses by the Sports Minister of Puducherry and esteemed ambassadors, all expressing enthusiasm and support for the championship. Distinguished guests included Thiru. A. Namassivayam, Hon’ble Minister for Home, Sports, and Education of Puducherry; Thiru. Annibal Kennedy, Member of Legislative Assembly; and Thiru Dr. Sharat Chauhan, IAS, Chief Secretary of Puducherry. Their presence underscored the significance of the championship in advancing sports development and strengthening international relations.
As part of the ceremony, several ambassadors were felicitated by the Sports Minister and Dr. Rashmi Saluja. 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 reinforced the diplomatic importance of sports as a bridge for collaboration and mutual understanding.
State Hosted Dinner
Following the opening ceremony, a State Hosted Dinner was organized, offering an informal platform for interaction between government officials and diplomats. The discussions, led by the Chief Secretary of Puducherry, Dr. Sharat Chauhan, focused on global cooperation, trade, investment, cultural exchange, and the role of sports in strengthening international partnerships. The presence of senior sports officials further enriched conversations on leveraging sports as a catalyst for global engagement.
Business Meeting with Chief Secretary
A key business meeting was held at the Chief Secretariat of Puducherry, chaired by Chief Secretary Dr. Sharat Chauhan. The discussions explored opportunities for international collaboration in culture, tourism, and the sea economy, with a particular focus on cooperation between India and Mauritius. Diplomats also extended invitations to visit Mongolia, expressing interest in expanding cultural exchange and trade relations. The meeting highlighted the importance of dialogue in fostering long-term international partnerships.
Closing Ceremony
The championship concluded on October 5, 2024, with a grand closing ceremony graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Puducherry as the chief guest. The ceremony celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that defined the championship. Dignitaries expressed appreciation for the Curling Federation of India and all partners involved in successfully hosting the event.
Outstanding performances by teams from Puducherry and Haryana were especially appreciated, with players demonstrating exceptional skill, discipline, and sportsmanship. Their achievements were recognized with accolades, inspiring greater participation and interest in curling across the country.
Conclusion
The 3rd National Curling Championship 2024 was not only a celebration of athletic excellence but also a testament to the power of sports as a tool for diplomacy and international cooperation. Under the leadership of Dr. Rashmi Saluja, President of the Curling Federation of India, and with the support of the Government of Puducherry, the championship emerged as a memorable and impactful event, strengthening cultural ties and promoting unity through sport.
