Srinagar, July 3: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Friday inaugurated the All-India Inter-NIT Faculty & Staff Cricket Tournament (Men) 2026, marking the first time the institute is hosting the prestigious national event.

The five-day tournament, scheduled from July 4 to July 8, will feature 24 teams representing NITs from across the country. Matches will be played at eight venues across Srinagar, promoting sportsmanship, teamwork and inter-institutional camaraderie among faculty and staff.
The inaugural ceremony, held at the institute's Common Hall, began with the National Anthem and National Song and was attended by senior officials, faculty members, players and team representatives.
In his message, NIT Srinagar Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia highlighted the role of sports in strengthening institutional ties and fostering lasting relationships. He said such events promote unity beyond geographical and cultural boundaries while showcasing Kashmir's hospitality.
In-charge Director Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir formally declared the tournament open, describing it as a celebration of national integration, healthy competition and shared excellence. She reaffirmed the institute's commitment to promoting both academic excellence and sporting culture.
Faculty In-Charge of the Sports Activity Centre, Dr. Manoj Kumar, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of sports in promoting physical fitness, mental resilience, discipline and professional bonding.
Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman said sporting events help build leadership, teamwork and institutional cooperation, while Dean Faculty Welfare Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Ahanger stressed the importance of physical activity in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
A felicitation ceremony was also held to honour dignitaries and representatives of participating institutes.
Earlier, a managers' meeting was conducted to finalize tournament fixtures, match schedules and team groupings to ensure the smooth conduct of the championship. Officials expressed confidence that the tournament would provide competitive cricket while strengthening cooperation and camaraderie among India's premier technical institutions.