Army Rowing Node Conferred World Rowing Programme of the Year Award 2025

Indian rowing reached a historic milestone on the global stage as the Army Rowing Node (ARN), based at the College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune, was conferred the World Rowing Programme of the Year

Award 2025 by World Rowing, the international governing body of the sport.

The recognition marks an unprecedented achievement, with the Army Rowing Node becoming the first rowing programme in the world to be nominated for and to receive this prestigious honour.

Award Ceremony in Lausanne

The award ceremony was held on January 24, 2026, in Lausanne, Switzerland. The event was attended by the Commanding Officer of the Army Rowing Node, Col Ramakrishna, along with the President of India Rowing, Balaji Maradappa, and senior representatives of India Rowing. Their presence symbolised the collective pride of the Indian Army and the national rowing fraternity at this global platform.

Foundation and Vision of the Army Rowing Node

The Army Rowing Node was established in 2001 and placed under the Mission Olympic Wing as part of the Chief of Army Staff's long-term vision to win Olympic medals through Army sportsmen. In its formative years, training activities were conducted near the Mula-Mutha River in Pune before plans were drawn up for a permanent high-performance rowing centre.

Development of a World-Class Facility

In 2005, the Indian Army initiated the construction of a state-of-the-art rowing facility built to international standards. The complex was commissioned in 2009, following which the Army Rowing Node was relocated to its current home within the CME campus in Pune. The facility features a 2.2-kilometre-long rowing channel that is 135 metres wide and 3.5 metres deep, complete with starter and aligner huts and finish towers at the 500m, 1000m, 1500m and 2000m points.

The infrastructure is further supported by a modern gymnasium, a spectator gallery with a seating capacity of 600, a boathouse that can house up to 120 boats, and comprehensive residential and dining facilities for athletes. Notably, the Army Rowing Node remains the only rowing facility in India capable of hosting international rowing competitions.

High-Performance Training Structure

At any given time, approximately 85 rowers undergo systematic and scientific training at the Army Rowing Node. Athletes are inducted into the programme upon joining the Army and are classified into Elite, Intermediate and Novice categories based on performance parameters. The training ecosystem is managed by a dedicated team comprising two officers, twelve coaches and specialised support staff, ensuring a holistic approach to athlete development.

A Legacy of Medal-Winning Excellence

Over the years, athletes trained at the Army Rowing Node have consistently delivered results at both national and international levels. The programme has produced more than 590 national medals and 129 international medals, along with 15 Arjuna Awardees, two Dronacharya Awardees, one Padma Shri Awardee, two Dhyan Chand Awardees and 11 Olympians. These achievements underline the sustained excellence and discipline that define the Node's legacy.

Outstanding Performance in 2025

The year 2025 further cemented the Army Rowing Node's status as a cradle of champions. The National Coaching Camp for Men ahead of the Asian Rowing Championships was conducted at the facility, and the Elite Men's team delivered one of India's finest performances at the continental level. The team secured three gold, four silver and two bronze medals, marking one of the best-ever medal hauls for India at the Asian Rowing Championships.

A Milestone for Indian Rowing

The World Rowing Programme of the Year Award is more than institutional recognition; it represents a watershed moment for Indian rowing. The honour reflects India's growing professionalism, infrastructure strength and competitive credibility in the global rowing community. For the Indian Army, it reaffirms its pivotal role in nurturing elite athletes and contributing to the nation's Olympic ambitions.

Looking Ahead

India Rowing expressed its sincere appreciation for the unwavering support of the Indian Army, the expertise and dedication of the coaching and support staff, and the relentless commitment of the athletes. This historic recognition stands as a source of inspiration for rowing programmes across the country and signals a strong pathway toward sustained international success for Indian rowing.