India to Host First Ever World Athletics Continental Tour Silver Meet

India to Host Continental Tour Silver Level Athletics Meet in Bhubaneswar

India is set to make a major leap in international track and field hosting rights, with Bhubaneswar scheduled to conduct the country’s first-ever World Athletics Continental Tour Silver level meet on 22 August . The awarding of a Silver event marks India’s elevation on the global event ladder, reflecting rising organisational standards, improved infrastructure, and a deepening competitive culture within national athletics.

Sitting below the Platinum and Gold tiers, the Silver category provides significantly higher world ranking points, enhanced prize money, and stronger international participation compared to Bronze meets. For Indian athletes, this offers a rare home-soil opportunity to earn qualification marks for Asian and World Championships without the challenges of long foreign tours.

Expanded Competition Structure Announced for 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has unveiled an upgraded calendar for 2026, expanding the total number of sanctioned meets from 32 to 40 . A landmark addition is the introduction of India’s first national indoor athletics championships , scheduled for 24–25 March at Bhubaneswar’s new indoor complex. This move aligns India with global training trends where indoor competition forms the early season base for elite athletes.

Launch of Indian Athletics Series for Grassroots Development

AFI will also roll out a 16-leg Indian Athletics Series , beginning in April and continuing through September, aimed at facilitating structured competitive exposure for state-level athletes. The series will conclude with a high-performance finale at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, on 12 September .

Exam-Point Quick Facts

• India to host Continental Tour Silver Meet on 22 August .

• Silver level = Category B under World Athletics Tour.

• 40 meets scheduled in India for 2026.

• First National Indoor Championships: 24–25 March 2026 .

• 16-leg Indian Athletics Series , finale on 12 September .