The Sikkim Forest Department has returned home with pride after securing one silver and two bronze medals at the 28th All India Forest Sports Meet 2025, held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, from November 12 to 16. The 18-member contingent, led by Udai Gurung, IFS, Conservator of Forests, competed with determination against some of the strongest teams in the country. The national sporting event, organised under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), is one of the largest platforms for forest personnel across India. This year’s edition saw more than 3,500 participants from States, Union Territories and various forestry-related organisations. The meet celebrated sportsmanship, camaraderie and the unity of India’s forest services.
Despite being a relatively small team, Sikkim performed impressively, finishing on the podium in all three events they participated in. The Sikkim football squad claimed the bronze medal, defeating Meghalaya in the third-place match after a hard-fought contest. In table tennis, Silvanas Sherpa, Accountant, won silver, showcasing excellent form through the tournament. In the Marathon (25 km) category, Anup Jyoti Baniya, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), secured the bronze medal, adding another achievement to the team’s tally. Team leader Udai Gurung expressed deep appreciation for the support received from the state leadership. He thanked Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay (Tamang) for his continuous encouragement and commitment to promoting sporting talent in Sikkim. He also acknowledged the guidance of Forest & Environment Minister Pintso Namgyal Lepcha and PCCF-cum-Principal Secretary Dr. Pradeep Kumar, IFS, whose support, he said, played a crucial role in motivating the participants.
Gurung further extended gratitude to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Uttarakhand Forest Department for organising the national event with great enthusiasm and providing a platform that brings forest professionals together from across the country.