PM Modi Envisions a Sporting Future for India at Khelo India Dialogue

Kohima, India Aug 28, 2026 ALN: NEW DELHI, AUG 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Khelo India Samvaad (Khelo India Dialogue) via video conference on Thursday, addressing youth and athletes from over 5,000 institutions across the country as part of the National Sports Day 2026 celebrations.

The Khelo India Samvaad was held in honor of National Sports Day, celebrated annually on August 29, marking the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. This day is significant in India as it not only commemorates the contributions of Major Dhyan Chand to Indian hockey but also serves as a reminder of the importance of sports in the country. The Khelo India initiative, launched in 2018, aims to promote sports at the grassroots level and encourage youth participation in various sporting activities. By integrating sports into the educational framework, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of fitness and well-being among the younger generation.

In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the deeper purpose of sports in nation-building, stating, “When I talk about sports, it isn’t just about winning medals; it is a campaign to integrate India’s sports power and youth energy to build a Viksit Bharat. I have always said, ‘Those who play will blossom.’” This vision reflects a broader understanding of sports as a means to unify diverse communities, enhance physical health, and instill values of teamwork and perseverance among the youth. Modi’s emphasis on sports transcends mere competition; it is about harnessing the potential of the youth to contribute positively to society.

Modi called for India to broaden its participation in global sports, noting, “Other countries are winning medals in sports where India does not even participate; we must master these sports as well.” This statement underscores the need for India to diversify its sporting disciplines and invest in training athletes across a variety of sports, not just those traditionally popular in the country. The Prime Minister's call to action is crucial as it highlights the potential for India to excel in international competitions beyond cricket, which has often dominated the national sports narrative.

To this end, the Prime Minister outlined a long-term strategy aimed at preparing a substantial number of Indian athletes for the 2036 Olympics, ensuring they not only qualify but excel in a wide range of sports. By setting sights on the 2036 Olympics, which will be held in Brisbane, Australia, the government is signaling its commitment to long-term planning and investment in sports infrastructure, coaching, and athlete welfare. He announced the launch of a national Talent Hunt targeting children aged 5 to 15, assuring that the government would provide necessary support. This initiative aims to identify and nurture young talent from an early age, ensuring that they receive the coaching and resources needed to compete at international levels.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, welcomed the Prime Minister virtually from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar. He remarked, “The country has, for the first time, seen sports not merely as an activity but as a national priority.” This statement reflects a significant shift in policy focus, where sports are increasingly recognized as a vital component of national development. Mandaviya praised Modi’s personal connection with athletes, stating, “Your personal connect with athletes is the biggest strength of your sports vision. You have celebrated champions’ victories and stood by them in defeat, which is why India’s athletes consider you their own.” This connection is crucial for fostering a supportive environment for athletes, as it can inspire confidence and motivate them to strive for excellence.

Dr. Mandaviya also highlighted the MyBharat platform, noting that over 2.4 crore youth have joined it, contributing to nation-building alongside their careers. This platform represents an effort to engage young people in various initiatives that promote national pride and development. The emphasis on a youth-centric approach in policy-making is evident in this year’s budget, which has been referred to as the Youth-Centric Budget, reflecting the implementation of youth ideas. This approach aims to empower the youth by providing them with opportunities and resources to shape their futures and contribute to the nation’s progress.

He further discussed the importance of strengthening sports governance through transparency and accountability, stating, “Through the National Sports Governance Act, we aim to ensure that talent gets its due.” This act is part of a broader effort to reform sports administration in India, ensuring that athletes receive fair treatment and that resources are allocated effectively. Good governance in sports is essential for the development of a robust sports culture, as it can help in addressing issues such as corruption, mismanagement, and lack of support for athletes.

Following the Prime Minister’s address, Olympic medallist Gagan Narang shared his inspiring journey as an athlete with the youth present at IIT Gandhinagar. Narang expressed gratitude for the administrative changes in sports that have provided athletes with the best equipment for international competition. His experiences serve as a testament to the potential of Indian athletes when given the right support and resources. The presence of accomplished athletes like Narang at such events can motivate young participants to pursue their sporting dreams with determination.

Joining him was 2024 Paralympic bronze medallist Sheetal Devi, who also shared her story, emphasizing the changing mindsets towards para-athletes. She noted, “Those who used to question, ‘what can they achieve?’ now say, ‘yes, they will achieve; they are the ones who will bring home the medals.’” This shift in perception is crucial for the inclusion of para-athletes in mainstream sports discussions and for ensuring that they receive the recognition and support they deserve. The stories of athletes like Sheetal Devi highlight the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming challenges, inspiring the next generation of athletes to pursue their goals regardless of their circumstances.

The students of IIT Gandhinagar presented a project to the youth, focusing on five key themes outlined by the Prime Minister: Sports, Olympic Aspirations, Youth Leadership, Viksit Bharat, and Nasha Mukt Yuva, all aimed at India’s journey towards sporting excellence. These themes encapsulate the vision for a developed India where sports play a central role in building a vibrant and healthy society. By encouraging youth leadership in sports, the initiative aims to cultivate future leaders who can drive the sports agenda forward and inspire others to engage in physical activities.

In conclusion, the Khelo India Dialogue represents a significant step towards realizing Prime Minister Modi's vision for a sporting future in India. By fostering a culture of sports, investing in youth talent, and promoting inclusivity, the government aims to create a robust sports ecosystem that not only enhances India's performance in international competitions but also contributes to the overall well-being of its citizens. The emphasis on long-term strategies and grassroots engagement reflects a commitment to building a Viksit Bharat, where sports serve as a catalyst for national unity and pride.