In a significant update for India’s junior athletics circuit, the 23rd National Junior Federation Cup (U20) Athletics Championships — initially scheduled for 27–29 May 2025 in Indore — has been postponed to 22–24 June 2025.
The event will now take place at the Madan Mohan Malviya Sports Stadium in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed the new dates and venue via a circular (No. 41/05-2025) issued on 22 May 2025 to all affiliated state units. The competition will now be hosted by the U.P. Athletics Association under AFI’s aegis.
A Crucial Meet for India’s U20 Athletes
Despite the lack of official clarification on the reason for postponement, the shift in venue from Indore to Prayagraj strongly suggests that logistical or administrative issues at the host’s end may have necessitated the change.
This championship is a critical opportunity for India’s U20 athletes, serving as a selection platform for future international age-group competitions and national camp consideration.
With top junior athletes having tailored their season around this event, the delay — while potentially inconvenient — offers additional time to fine-tune preparations.
Key Championship Details (as per revised circular):
- Dates: 22–24 June 2025
- Venue: Madan Mohan Malviya Sports Stadium, Company Garden, Prayagraj
- Organized by: U.P. Athletics Association
- Under the Rules of: World Athletics Competition & Technical Rules 2024 Edition and Indian Athletics Manual
- SOP Guidelines: As issued by Govt. of India/MYAS/SAI/AFI & Govt. of Uttar Pradesh
Eligibility & Entry Guidelines:
- Age Group: Boys & Girls born after 24 June 2005 and before 25 June 2009
- Maximum Events: Two individual events per athlete; U18 athletes limited to one sprint above 200m
- Entry Period: 24 May – 11 June 2025, online only via AFI website
- Entry Standard: Only those who have met the required standard in officially recognized meets in the last 2 years may apply
- Entry Fee: ₹500 per event (non-refundable)
No manual entries will be entertained, and athletes must upload proof of achieving the qualifying mark from meets that used electronic timing.
Events and Entry Standards
The detailed list of events and entry standards is attached with the AFI circular. Athletes, coaches, and state associations are advised to refer to the official documentation before submitting entries.
What This Means for the Athletics Calendar
The revised dates push the junior national meet into a congested window in June, especially for those athletes also involved in school boards, university trials, or other sports commitments. However, for many, this extra month could serve as a timely chance to sharpen form or meet the qualifying standards.
With athletes from across the country now aiming for Prayagraj instead of Indore, the countdown resets. The U.P. Athletics Association will now be tasked with delivering a smooth and impactful championship for the next generation of Indian athletics talent.
