Cuttack: The 74th State Police Athletic Championship – 2026 was ceremoniously inaugurated today at the Reserve Police Ground in Buxi Bazar, Cuttack.
Shri Vinayatosh Mishra, DGP Crime Branch, graced the occasion as the chief guest, marking the start of a multi-day event dedicated to the spirit of sportsmanship within the force.
He noted that this state-level sports meet provides a vital platform for police personnel to demonstrate their physical and mental prowess. The DGP expressed particular satisfaction regarding the increased participation of women athletes this year compared to previous editions. Highlighting past achievements, he mentioned that Odisha Police athletes have brought laurels to the department through exceptional performances at both national and international levels.
Shri Mishra shared his optimism that successful competitors from this championship will go on to represent the force with pride at the All India Police Athletic Championship and other major sporting events.
Shri Mishra emphasized that such championships boost self-confidence, discipline, and a sense of dedication among officers and staff. He added that the gathering of players from various state, district, and range levels would foster better coordination and camaraderie within the force. On this occasion, he extended his gratitude to Director General of Police for the successful organization and management of the event.
The championship features 36 police teams from different ranges and battalions across the state. A total of 502 athletes are participating, comprising 427 men and 75 women. The competitive events are scheduled to continue until February 10th.
The inaugural program was attended by several senior officials, including Sanjay Kumar, ADGP (Law and Order) and Chairman of the Athletic Championship; Prateek Mohanty, ADGP (Headquarters); S. Praveen Kumar, IGP (Personnel); Gajbhiye Satish Kumar, IGP (SAP); Jai Narayan Pankaj, IGP (Intelligence); Charan Singh Meena, DIG (Provisioning); Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, DCP Cuttack; and Surya Narayan Mallick, Commandant of the 6th Battalion.