Panjab University Set to Host All India Inter-University Rowing Championships

Panjab University is poised to host the All India Inter-University Rowing Championships after IES University in Bhopal withdrew from the event. The championships are expected to take place at Sukhna Lake, pending final approval from the Association of Indian Universities. This would mark the third AIU event hosted by Panjab University, following previous successful championships. The venue has a rich history of hosting rowing events, and discussions are also underway regarding the restoration of a watchtower at the lake. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development in university sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 11, 2026, 03:11 IST

Panjab University Likely to Host Rowing Championships

Panjab University is on the verge of being granted the hosting rights for the All India Inter-University Rowing Championships for both men and women. This opportunity arises after IES University in Bhopal indicated its inability to organize the event.

Initially, the Bhopal institution was slated to hold the championships from April 14 to 18. However, the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has reached out to Panjab University to take over the hosting duties. The university has tentatively agreed to hold the event at Sukhna Lake, pending final confirmation from the AIU.

If the arrangement is finalized, this will mark the third AIU event hosted by Panjab University, following the North-East Zone Weightlifting, Inter-Zonal Weightlifting, and the All India Inter-University Gymnastics Championships.

Dr. Rakesh Malik, Director of Sports at Panjab University, stated, "The AIU inquired if we could organize the event on short notice, and we have consented. We are now waiting for the official approval to confirm our role as hosts."

It remains uncertain whether the dates for the championship will be adjusted. Given that water sports are actively conducted at Sukhna Lake, the venue is anticipated to offer an excellent backdrop for the competition.

Sukhna Lake has previously hosted the All India Inter-University Rowing Championships, organized by both Chandigarh University and Panjab University. In 2025, Lovely Professional University (LPU) excelled in the event, securing 11 gold, three silver, and two bronze medals at Sukhna Lake, while Chandigarh University achieved 20 gold medals in 2024.

Rowers from various universities will compete for top honors using four types of boats: single scull, double scull, and quadruple sculls.

This development has also reignited discussions about reconstructing the four-storey watchtower at Sukhna Lake, which was destroyed by fire in 2009. The Chandigarh Rowing Association (CRA) has formally requested the UT Administration to restore the structure on the lake island.