IIT Madras unveiled its state-of-the-art Sitara Indoor Sports Complex on November 4, marking a significant expansion of the institute's sports infrastructure.
Already equipped with extensive outdoor facilities, including basketball, volleyball, football, and cricket grounds, along with the Gymkhana Sports Complex and a swimming pool, IIT Madras continues to raise the bar for athletic amenities on campus.
According to an official press release, the Sitara Indoor Sports Complex features four badminton courts, multiple table tennis courts, and a gallery on the mezzanine floor, designed to enhance the experience for spectators and players alike. Additionally, an open tennis court on the terrace offers students a unique training environment. This investment in sports facilities aligns with the institute’s goal of promoting a well-rounded student experience.
At the inauguration ceremony, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti expressed high hopes for the future, stating, “The day is not far off when IIT Madras will have an Olympian as an alumnus.” He emphasized the institute’s commitment to inviting national champions and other top athletes to mentor students, thereby elevating their competitive standards.
The inauguration was graced by several sports icons, including table tennis champion and Padma Shri awardee Sharath Kamal, who has represented India at five Olympic Games. Also present were Somdev Devvarman, a Davis Cup player and Padma Shri recipient, and Manisha Ramadoss, who recently won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paralympic Badminton Championship in Paris. Their presence underscored the importance of the event and the institute’s dedication to nurturing sports talent.
Notably, IIT Madras stands out as the first IIT to offer undergraduate program admissions specifically for sportspersons, further demonstrating its support for athletics. The addition of the Sitara Indoor Sports Complex is expected to motivate students and provide them with opportunities to excel both academically and athletically, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive campus culture.