Khelo India Samvaad Set to Enhance Grassroots Sports Infrastructure

Kohima, India Aug 26, 2026 ALN: DIMAPUR, AUG 25: Preparations for the nationwide “Khelo India Samvad – Khel Ki Baat PM Ke Saath” scheduled for August 27 were finalized at a press conference held at Pranab College, Dimapur. The briefing was led by District Youth Officer (DYO) Dimapur, K. Manikanta, along with Principal of Pranab College, Dr. Santosh Kumar, and National Service Scheme (NSS) Programme Officers from participating colleges.

According to a DIPR report, Manikanta stated that the initiative would provide an opportunity to observe grassroots sports facilities and identify areas requiring improvement. He added that the observations would help prepare a model action plan for strengthening sports infrastructure, with additional capital and external funding expected to be made available from the following year. The broader objective of the programme is to promote sports among youth and contribute towards India’s target of securing 36 Olympic medals at the 2036 Olympics.

The Khelo India initiative, launched by the Government of India in 2018, aims to revive the sports culture in the country at the grassroots level. It focuses on the holistic development of sports in India by providing the necessary infrastructure, training, and support to budding athletes. The program has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing talent from various regions, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, where access to sports facilities is often limited. By engaging local communities and institutions, Khelo India seeks to create a sustainable sports ecosystem that fosters both participation and excellence.

In Dimapur, Pranab College, Regional Institute of Management College, and Technical College have been selected to participate in the initiative. The event will also feature the felicitation of local sports achievers, including medal winners, individuals who secured government employment through sporting achievements, and those who attained high ranks at national-level sporting events. Celebrating local talent is crucial as it not only motivates the athletes but also inspires the youth in the community to pursue sports seriously.

A dedicated session on careers in sports will be organized, featuring interactions with local sportspersons and coaches to provide guidance and highlight career prospects in the field. This aspect of the program is particularly significant as it addresses the common misconception that sports careers are limited to professional athletes. In reality, the sports industry offers a myriad of opportunities ranging from coaching, sports management, physiotherapy, sports journalism, and even sports marketing. By providing insights into these diverse career paths, the program aims to broaden the horizons of young individuals interested in sports.

The programme is being organized in collaboration with the Sports Department and local authorities, with activities aimed at motivating youth and encouraging greater participation in sports. Manikanta also highlighted various youth engagement activities, including registration drives across districts and competitions based on current affairs and other themes, intended to create greater awareness among youth and encourage their participation in national initiatives. Engaging youth through competitions and interactive activities can foster a sense of community and teamwork, which are essential elements in sports.

NSS Programme Officer of Pranab College, Ulla Lauren Fernandez, expressed gratitude to the District Administration, State NSS Office, and concerned officials for providing the institution an opportunity to participate. She expressed hope that the programme would create greater awareness among youth and encourage their involvement in sports. The coordination meeting brought together NSS leaders responsible for student mobilization across Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and Niuland districts, including Fernandez of Pranab College, Letsol Thakro of Tetso College, Hepitoli Y. Sumi of Platinum College, and Khriesalie of Patkai Christian College. This collaboration among various colleges is a testament to the collective effort being made to enhance sports culture in the region.

During the meeting, the NSS leadership launched physical posters and digital banners across participating institutions. Students will be encouraged to access the official MY Bharat portal through QR codes installed on campuses and submit their feedback and suggestions towards India’s 2036 Olympic roadmap. The use of technology in this initiative not only modernizes the engagement process but also allows for a wider reach and participation from the youth. By actively involving them in the planning process, the organizers hope to cultivate a sense of ownership and responsibility among the young participants.

The institutions have completed preparations, including arrangements for digital projection facilities and dedicated auditoriums, to host the nationwide live-stream of the programme from 2:00 PM on August 27. This live-streaming aspect is particularly significant as it allows for a broader audience to participate in the discussions and activities, transcending geographical barriers. The incorporation of technology in sports initiatives reflects a growing trend where digital platforms are used to enhance engagement and outreach.

The organizers stated that the initiative would provide a platform for direct interaction with youth while also helping identify grassroots-level infrastructure gaps and develop a roadmap for strengthening sports facilities and nurturing sporting talent. The outcomes of this program could have far-reaching implications for the future of sports in India, especially as the country gears up to host the 2036 Olympics. By investing in grassroots sports now, India aims to build a robust pipeline of talent that can compete on the world stage. The Khelo India Samvad initiative is a crucial step in this direction, ensuring that the voices of the youth are heard and that their needs in sports are met effectively.