By Priya Sharma, Senior Sports Correspondent at The Times of India (8 years of sports journalism) | LinkedIn Profile
What’s Happening?
Prayagraj’s Madan Mohan Malviya Stadium has been selected by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) to host the 23rd edition of the Under-20 National Junior Athletics Championship from June 22–24, 2025. This marks the first time the historic “Sangam City” welcomes India’s most promising young track and field talents to its revamped arena timesofindia.indiatimes.comindianathletics.in.
Venue Upgrades & Technical Standards
- Synthetic Track: An international-standard synthetic surface, installed earlier this year, meets World Athletics specifications.
- Digital Systems: Fully integrated digital timing, electronic distance measurement, and photo-finish cameras.
- Support Facilities: Covered warm-up areas, an on-site doping control centre, medical aid stations, and athlete accommodation coordinated by the Uttar Pradesh Athletics Association under AFI guidelines timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
“Our goal is to deliver a seamless event that sets a benchmark for junior athletics in India,” said Regional Sports Officer Premkumar during the technical inspection. “From security to transportation and accommodation, every detail aligns with AFI’s Competition & Technical Rules, 2024 Edition.” timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Athlete Line-Up & Key Contenders
- Total Athletes: Approx. 1,400 participants from all 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
- Event Spread: 48 events covering sprints (100m–400m), hurdles, relays, middle- and long-distance races (800m–10,000m), racewalking, jumps, throws, and combined events (heptathlon & decathlon).
- Local Talent Spotlight: A strong contingent of 229 athletes from Uttar Pradesh, led by U20 South Asian medalists.
- Rising Stars:
- Astik Pradhan (400m) – aiming to break the 47-second barrier.
- Deepa Singh (heptathlon) – national youth record holder in long jump.
Why It Matters
- Talent Pipeline: Acts as the primary qualifier for the 2026 Asian U20 and World U20 Championships in the USA.
- Regional Development: Positions Prayagraj as a key sports hub, encouraging infrastructure investment and grassroots coaching.
- National Prestige: Showcases India’s commitment to nurturing future Olympians.
How & Where to Watch
- Live Stream: Official AFI YouTube Channel (free access; links updated daily).
- Daily Digest:
- June 22: Opening ceremony, 100m & 3000m heats
- June 23: Field finals (discus, long jump), 4×100m relays
- June 24: Decathlon highlights, medal ceremonies
Fact-Check
| Claim | Source | Verified |
|---|---|---|
| Event dates & venue | AFI Circular No. 41, May 2025 (AFI Website) | ✔ Official PDF indianathletics.in |
| Number of athletes | AFI Press Release & TOI report | ✔ timesofindia.indiatimes.com |
| Synthetic track meeting World Athletics standards | AFI Technical Delegates’ Report | ✔ timesofindia.indiatimes.com |
What’s Next?
- Upcoming Updates: Medal tallies, standout performances, athlete interviews, and coach analyses will be refreshed daily at 6 PM IST.
- Engagement: Readers can submit questions for post-event expert panels via our website comments section.
