Pune, January 31, 2026: The 43rd Senior National Rowing Championship 2026 concluded successfully at the Army Rowing Node (ARN) of the College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune, marking a major event in India’s national rowing calendar.
Held from January 27 to 31 under the Mission Olympics Wing of CME, the championship witnessed intense competition among top rowers from States and Services teams across the country. The event featured elite performances and was conducted with high organisational standards.
The closing ceremony was attended by Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, who was the chief guest. Senior Army officials including Lt Gen Vipul Singhal, AVSM, SM, Deputy Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Vikas Rohella, AVSM, SM, Engineer-in-Chief, along with civil dignitaries and Rowing Federation of India president Balaji Maradapa, were also present.
One of the major highlights of the championship was the Para Single Scull event, which drew attention for promoting inclusivity and showcasing the resilience of para-athletes.
In the overall medal standings, the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) secured first place, followed by the Army Sports Control Board (ASCB) in second position. Several medal-winning crews from both teams comprised rowers trained at the Army Rowing Node, reinforcing its role as a key training hub for elite Indian rowing talent.
Addressing the gathering, the Army Commander praised the ARN and CME for the smooth conduct of the championship and reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to developing world-class sportspersons and strengthening India’s presence in national and international sports.