Alappuzha, Aug. 21 -- The 72nd edition of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is set for intense competition at the Punnamada backwaters in Keralam's Alappuzha, featuring 71 boats - including 22 iconic snake boats (Chundan Vallam) - competing across various categories.

Chief Minister V D Satheesan is scheduled to inaugurate the prestigious water sporting event on Saturday at 2 pm. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is one of Keralam's most celebrated cultural and sporting traditions, drawing roots back to 1952.

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar will be the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony and will also present the prizes to the winners.

Kerala Cooperation and Excise Minister M Liju will preside over the function, while Home Minister Ramesh C...