Dibrugarh: Sri Sri Aniruddhadeva Sports University (SSASU) in Dibrugarh has become the sole institution from Assam and the entire northeastern region to receive the prestigious FERN Gold Award from the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The award, which stands for Fit India Eco-friendly and Responsible Navigation, was presented during the nationwide World Bicycle Day celebrations held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on June 7.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, personally handed over the award to the university's registrar, Pankaj Borthakur, who accepted the honor on behalf of the institution. SSASU now joins the distinguished company of Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi and the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, both of which have established their entire campuses as 100 percent vehicle-free zones.
The award recognizes SSASU's pioneering decision to maintain its campus in Dibrugarh as a completely vehicle-free zone since its inception. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to rely on walking, cycling, and other eco-friendly modes of transport, fostering a culture of active living and environmental responsibility within the academic community.
Minister's Vision for a Greener India
Speaking at the New Delhi ceremony, Dr Mandaviya commended the award-winning institutions for leading the way in transforming India's campuses. "Today, I am pleased to recognize those institutions that have successfully transformed their university and industrial campuses into 100 percent vehicle-free zones. Their commitment serves as an inspiring example for others across the country," he said.
The minister further articulated his broader vision, stating, "Our goal is to see schools, colleges, and universities adopt vehicle-free campuses, encourage cycling, and promote healthier lifestyles. By embracing these practices, we can contribute to a fitter, greener, and more sustainable India."
University Leadership Applauds Recognition
Prof Hirendra Nath Sarma, Vice Chancellor of SSASU, hailed the recognition as a testament to the university's forward-thinking philosophy. He said the award highlights the institution's growing reputation as a leader in both sports education and sustainable campus development, and affirmed that the university would continue deepening its commitment to green initiatives.
The FERN Award framework also includes a silver category recognizing institutions with partial vehicle-free measures. Silver awards were presented to universities across India, including IIT Hyderabad, LNIPE Gwalior, Parul University, and Kumaraguru College of Technology, during various World Bicycle Day events.
