Army Rowing Node, CME Pune Hosts 43rd Senior National Rowing Championship 2026

The 43rd Senior National Rowing Championship 2026 concluded successfully at the Army Rowing Node (ARN) under the Mission Olympics Wing of the College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune, marking another significant milestone in India’s competitive rowing ecosystem. 

The championship, conducted from 27–31 January 2026, witnessed high-intensity competition, elite athletic performances, and exemplary organizational conduct. The Closing Ceremony was graced by Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, as the Chief Guest. The ceremony was also attended by Lt Gen Vipul Singhal, AVSM, SM, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (DCOAS), Lt Gen Vikas Rohella, AVSM, SM**,  Engineer-in-Chief, senior Indian Army officials and eminent civil dignitaries, including Mr Balaji Maradapa, President, Rowing Federation of India(RFI).

The event saw participation from States and Services teams. A major highlight of the event was the Para Single Scull competition, which stood as a powerful symbol of resilience, inclusivity and the indomitable spirit of sport.

In the overall standings, the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) clinched first position, while the Army Sports Control Board (ASCB) secured second position. Notably, medal-winning crews from both SSCB and ASCB comprised rowers trained at the Army Rowing Node, underscoring ARN’s role as a cradle of elite Indian rowing and a key pillar of the Mission Olympics vision.

Addressing the gathering, the Army Commander commended the ARN and CME for the exemplary conduct of the championship and reiterated the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to nurturing world-class sportspersons, strengthening India’s presence at national and international sporting arenas.