Panjab University (PU) has etched its name in the annals of university sports with a magnificent display at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025. The institution delivered one of its finest all-round performances, clinching the overall championship titles in two sports and finishing an impressive fifth in the overall medals' tally among a massive field of 141 competing universities.
A Medal Haul That Speaks Volumes
The athletes from Chandigarh-based Panjab University returned home with a rich bounty of 65 medals. This impressive collection comprised 14 gold, 33 silver, and 18 bronze medals. This marks a significant and remarkable rise from their previous year's total of 40 medals, showcasing tremendous growth and development in their sports programs. Notably, the university also finished the games with the highest number of silver medals among all participating institutions, a testament to the depth and consistency of its talent pool.
Championship Glory and Top-Three Finishes
PU's director of sports, Rakesh Malik, hailed this year's performance as a significant leap compared to previous editions. The university secured top-three overall positions in an astounding eight different sports. The pinnacle of their success was achieving the status of overall champions in yoga (men) and judo (women).
The university's strength across disciplines was further highlighted by its runner-up finishes in shooting, canoeing & kayaking, and women's athletics. Adding to the glory, PU secured the third place overall in women's basketball, women's table tennis, men's badminton, and men's kabaddi.
Sport-Wise Breakdown of Success
The medal contributions came from a diverse range of sports, underlining PU's comprehensive sporting culture:
- Shooting led the charge as the top medal contributor with a spectacular haul of 6 gold, 9 silver, and 3 bronze medals.
- Canoeing and Kayaking athletes showcased remarkable skill, bringing home 12 silver and 4 bronze medals.
- The track and field contingent added significant weight with 4 gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze medals.
- Fencers secured 1 silver and 4 bronze medals, while the judo team contributed 2 gold and 1 silver to the championship title.
- Boxers won 1 gold and 1 silver, cyclists took home two silver medals, and swimmers earned two bronze medals.
- Archers added one silver, and the Yogasana athletes contributed the crucial one gold that sealed the overall championship in men's yoga.
This outstanding performance at KIUG 2025 not only brings immense pride to Panjab University but also solidifies its reputation as a premier nursery for sporting talent in India. The dramatic increase in medal count and the championship titles signal a powerful upward trajectory for its athletic programs.
