Forest Minister Ganesh Naik inaugurates the Interschool Sports Festival 2024-25

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) marked the birth anniversary of Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule with the inauguration of the Interschool Sports Festival 2024-25. The event, jointly organised by the Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Vidyalaya and Manyavar Kanshiramji Hindi Vidyalaya under the guidance of former Mayor Sudhakar Sonawane, was officially launched by Forest Minister Ganesh Naik. 

The grand inauguration, held on January 3, witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde, City Engineer Shirish Ardwad, Education Deputy Commissioner Sangharatna Khilare, event organiser and former Mayor Sudhakar Sonawane, former corporators Ranjana Sonawane and Gautami Sonawane, teachers, and a large gathering of enthusiastic students. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik praised Sudhakar Sonawane's relentless efforts in transforming the area. “Sudhakar Sonawane has uplifted this community, which once struggled below the poverty line, by improving infrastructure and establishing two schools. His dedication to enriching the lives of underprivileged children through education is commendable. Even as Mayor, he continued to work for the welfare of this community alongside his wife and activists, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and political affiliation. I hope his noble work continues to grow,” he said. 

NMMC Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde echoed this sentiment, emphasising the NMMC’s commitment to holistic education. “The message of Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule, ‘All-round development with education,’ guides our efforts. This settlement, predominantly home to labourers, now boasts an educational legacy thanks to the collaboration of Sudhakar Sonawane, Ranjana Sonawane, and other social workers with the NMMC. Today, over 4,500 students are receiving quality education here. We aim to enhance this further by setting up laboratories and libraries to provide a scientific learning environment,” he said. 
The sports festival, which runs from 3rd to 5th January, features participation from 10 schools, including five municipal schools and five private-aided institutions. Over 2,000 young athletes are competing in a variety of events, making it a celebration of talent and teamwork. 

Events include:

Kindergarten Games: Ball throwing, counting numbers, running, letter recognition, and obstacle races, along with stalls showcasing educational materials by kindergarten teachers. 

·        Grades 1 & 2: Spoon-and-lemon race, colour recognition, sack race, running, letter recognition, and a game titled “Pick Your Name.” 

·        Grades 3 & 4: Word-making, hopscotch, word chains, rope skipping, and running. 

·        Grades 5 to 8: Running and chess competitions. 

·        Kabaddi: Matches for boys and girls under 14 (Grades 6, 7, 8) and under 17 (Grade 9). 

·        Teachers’ Competitions: 100-metre race, chess, and carrom tournaments for men and women (mixed).