Pune, March 13 The National Defence Academy (NDA) will host the prestigious Sabhikhi Cup 2026 from March 17 to 21, bringing together 331 male and 98 female cadets from India's premier military training institutions in a showcase of athletic excellence, teamwork, and jointmanship, an official said on Friday.
For the first time, the event will witness competitive participation by female cadets, reinforcing the military's commitment to gender equality and inclusivity, according to a release.
"Sports have always held a great importance in the armed forces. Beyond physical fitness, sports develop qualities that are fundamental to military leadership – discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to make quick and sound decisions under pressure," it said.
This annual sports event brings together teams from the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, the Officers Training Academies (OTA) in Chennai and Gaya, and the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla.
"The cadets will compete in various disciplines, including cross-country running, football, basketball, hockey, volleyball, and squash, testing their physical endurance, skill, and competitive spirit. Winners and runners-up will be awarded trophies, medals, and certificates. The academy that performs overall best will be awarded the Sabhikhi Cup rolling trophy," the release said.
The Sabhikhi Cup is a cornerstone of the armed forces academies' training calendar, promoting sportsmanship, camaraderie, and the spirit of inter-service cooperation among future military leaders.
It is an honour for NDA to host this event, reaffirming its commitment to fostering excellence in sports and the spirit of jointmanship among the future leaders of the armed forces, the release said.