Chennai: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) inaugurated the 'Sitara Indoor Sports Complex' to enhance campus sports facilities.

The new complex, funded by an anonymous alumnus, includes four modern badminton courts, a mezzanine-level gallery, multiple table tennis courts, and an open terrace tennis court.

This facility expands IIT Madras' existing sports infrastructure, which already features basketball, volleyball, and cricket grounds, along with the Gymkhana Sports Complex and swimming pool.

Inaugurated by eminent Indian athletes — Padma Shri awardee and five-time Olympian Sharath Kamal (Table Tennis), Davis Cup player Somdev Devvarman, and 2024 Paralympic bronze medalist Manisha Ramadoss (Badminton) — the event included a panel discussion with students.

IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti emphasized the institute's commitment to producing elite athletes, citing the 'Sports Excellence Admission' program, which welcomed five national champions this academic year.

The sports complex also houses the Centre of Excellence in Sports Science and Analytics, led by Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, focusing on advancing sports tech and fostering collaboration within India's sports sector.

Dean Prof. Ashwin Mahalingam expressed gratitude for alumni support, underscoring IIT Madras' dedication to holistic development through sports and academics, aiming to set new standards in student athletics.