Join the Excitement: Union Sports Minister Champions India’s Largest National Sports Day Celebrations!

New Delhi, Aug 29 (IANS) This year’s National Sports Day in India was the largest yet, with around 30 crore citizens taking part in various events. The day celebrated the life of Major Dhyan Chand, a legendary hockey player, marking his 120th birthday.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, kicked off the celebrations at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. He joined over 2,000 participants, including athletes, officials from the Sports Ministry, and sports federations, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for interactive activities.

The day began with a pledge emphasizing fitness and well-being, reflecting the Olympic spirit. Activities ranged from fitness drives in schools to community sports events, aiming to inspire a sports culture across the nation. Officials dubbed it a “Jan Andolan of Sports,” captured by the slogan ‘Har Gali, Har Maidaan; Khele Saara Hindustan.’

Chief Ministers and MPs joined in from various states, highlighting the widespread engagement. In New Delhi, Dr. Mandaviya unveiled the country’s first MONDO Athletics Track at JLN Stadium. Both Paralympic champion Sumit Antil and Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra praised the track, calling it a significant advancement for Indian sports.

A light-hearted cricket match between the Ministers XI and Media XI added to the day’s festivities. Dr. Mandaviya reflected on India’s rich sports history and acknowledged initiatives like the Targeted Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Khelo India, and Fit India for fostering this spirit.

The celebrations were extensive and inclusive. For 15 days, events unfolded in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, featuring an underwater tribute to Major Dhyan Chand. The 17th Isha Gramotsavam, the largest rural sports festival in India, attracted 5,000 teams and 50,000 players across seven states.

Social media buzzed with messages of support from athletes like Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu, and others, alongside Bollywood stars who helped make National Sports Day a trending topic.

Festivities will continue for three days, with discussions on Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 and the National Sports Governance Act. Competitions in traditional sports, including kho-kho and kabaddi, are also scheduled.

The final day on August 31 will promote cycling under the theme ‘Swadeshi Bharat.’ A National Conclave on Sports Goods Manufacturing will occur in Delhi, aiming to boost domestic sports production in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat, further strengthening India’s role in international sports.

In terms of impact, a recent survey showed that 70% of Indian youth expressed increased interest in sports due to such national initiatives. It reflects a growing awareness that playing sports is not just about competition; it’s integral to health and wellbeing.

The emphasis on fitness and sports echoes a larger trend seen globally, where countries are investing in sports to improve public health and build community. With a commitment towards a sporting future, India aims to be among the top five medals-winning nations in the next Olympic Games.

For more on the initiatives and events surrounding National Sports Day, visit the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

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