Olympic medallist and the trailblazing first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal, Padma Shri Sakshi Malik Kadian, inaugurated SRM University-AP’s three-day national-level sports fest, UDGAM 2026, in the august presence of Guest of Honour and celebrated wrestling champion Shri Satyawart Kadian on April 23, 2026. The event displayed a grand celebration of sportsmanship, youth engagement, and competitive excellence, bringing together athletes from universities across the nation.

Vice Chancellor of SRM University-AP, Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, welcomed the dignitaries and expounded on the university’s emphasis on holistic education, prioritising academic, emotional and physical well-being of its students. He stated that “We are in the process of establishing a state-of-the-art sports complex providing training and mentorship in selected fields, including wrestling.”

Director of Sports Dr V Koul remarked that UDGAM 20206 provides a dynamic platform for young athletes to showcase their skills, determination and sportsmanship.

In her inaugural address, Padma Shri Sakshi Malik Kadian shared her wrestling journey from a small village in Haryana to the podium of the Rio Olympics 2016. She lauded the efforts initiated by SRM University-AP in promoting sports and the integration of physical health and fitness into the academic curriculum.

She addressed the students and athletes at UDGAM 2026, encouraging them to utilise the sports infrastructure at their campuses and explore the myriad opportunities in the athletic world. She remarked, “Set an aim, persevere with discipline and success will follow.”

SRM University-AP also awarded three student athletes who secured gold medals at the 85th All India Inter-University Athletics Championships 2025–26 with cash prizes. Chief Guest Padma Shri Sakshi Malik Kadian felicitated Mubasina Muhammed from B.Com. who came first in the Long Jump with ₹10,00,000/-, Aditya, B.A. Sociology and Anthropology student, with ₹5,00,000/- for securing Gold medal in Javelin Throw; and Anamika, MBA student with ₹5,00,000/- for winning Gold at the Heptathlon.

UDGAM 2026 features a wide spectrum of sports, including Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Kabaddi, Badminton (Singles & Doubles), Table Tennis (Singles & Doubles), Chess, and E-Sports competitions such as BGMI, Free Fire, FIFA, Marvel Rivals, and Valorant (Men & Women).

Over three action-packed days, UDGAM 2026 promises fierce competition, remarkable performances, and memories that will fuel the ambitions of India’s next generation of sporting champions. The event was also graced by Registrar Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Assistant Director of Sports, Deans, Directors, Faculty and students of SRM University-AP.