PM Modi to Engage Youth in Khelo India Dialogue on National Sports Day

New Delhi, India Aug 26, 2026 ALN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address young people at the Khelo India Dialogue through video conferencing on August 27, as part of the celebrations for National Sports Day 2026. This event is significant as it not only celebrates sports but also emphasizes the importance of youth engagement in shaping the future of India through sports and physical fitness.

The program, scheduled for 11 a.m., is organized by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), an initiative aimed at empowering the youth of India. It seeks to provide a platform for young individuals to engage with India’s sporting journey, share their aspirations, and contribute ideas towards building a youth-led Viksit Bharat, or Developed India. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of the Indian government to foster a culture of sports and fitness across the nation.

This nationwide initiative will involve participation from youth at two colleges in every district across States and Union Territories. By reaching out to educational institutions, the program aims to tap into the vibrant energy and innovative ideas of young people, ensuring that the aspirations of youth are placed at the center of the country’s development agenda. This is particularly crucial in a country like India, where a significant portion of the population is under the age of 30, making youth engagement a key factor in national growth.

The Khelo India Dialogue will unite themes of sports, youth leadership, civic responsibility, volunteering, fitness, and nation-building on a common platform. It will provide young participants with an opportunity to engage directly with India’s sporting ambitions, allowing them to contribute their perspectives to the evolving youth and sports ecosystem. This interaction is expected to inspire a generation of young leaders who can take on active roles in their communities and beyond.

Following the national program, local interactions will be organized involving young participants, MY Bharat volunteers, local sportspersons, and public representatives. These local events will serve as a crucial link between the national dialogue and grassroots engagement, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among participants. This initiative will also facilitate direct interaction between youth interested in sports and leading Indian athletes and medal winners, providing them with role models and mentors who can guide their sporting journeys.

Five Themes for Yuva Samvaad

A key component of the program will be Yuva Samvaad, where young participants will present their ideas, perspectives, and aspirations on issues relating to sports and youth development. This aspect of the dialogue is designed to empower young voices and ensure that their insights are heard and valued in national policy-making.

The dialogue will focus on five key themes, each addressing critical areas of concern for the youth and the sports community:

1. Strengthening India’s Sports Ecosystem: This theme will emphasize improving facilities, coaching, sports science, and promoting wider, more inclusive participation. Recognizing the importance of infrastructure in sports development, discussions will likely revolve around the need for better training facilities, access to qualified coaches, and the integration of sports science into training regimens.
2. Nurturing Sporting Talent for the 2036 Olympics: With an eye towards future Olympic Games, this theme will focus on scientific talent identification, transparent selection processes, and long-term athlete development. The goal is to create a robust pipeline of athletes who can compete at the highest levels, thereby enhancing India's performance on the global stage.
3. Developing Youth Leadership: This theme will explore governance platforms and volunteering initiatives led by MY Bharat. By encouraging young people to take leadership roles, the program aims to cultivate a generation of leaders who are not only skilled in sports but also in community engagement and social responsibility.
4. Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat: This theme will include the development of civic-mindedness, future-ready skills, and structured volunteering opportunities. The focus here is on equipping youth with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world, while also fostering a sense of responsibility towards their communities.
5. Nasha Mukt Yuva: This initiative aims to encourage young people to combat substance abuse through sports and peer networks. By promoting sports as a positive outlet, the program seeks to address the pressing issue of drug abuse among youth, encouraging healthier lifestyles and community support.

The anti-drug campaign will be reinforced through weekly Jan Bhagidari activities under the Prime Minister’s 100-week nationwide campaign, which was launched on August 2, 2026. This campaign aims to mobilize communities and create awareness about the dangers of substance abuse, while also promoting sports as a constructive alternative.

This dialogue represents a significant step in engaging the youth of India, fostering their involvement in sports, and addressing critical issues affecting their development. By prioritizing youth engagement in sports, the government not only aims to enhance the country’s performance in international competitions but also to build a healthier, more active, and socially responsible generation. The implications of this initiative could be far-reaching, potentially leading to a cultural shift where sports and fitness become integral parts of daily life for young Indians, thereby contributing to the overall well-being of the nation.