In a heartwarming conclusion to a historic sporting event, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya extended heartfelt congratulations to the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu for successfully hosting the first-ever Khelo India Beach Games. Held in the scenic coastal town of Diu from May 19 to 24, the Games brought together athletes from across the country in a vibrant celebration of talent, culture, and sportsmanship.
Dr. Mandaviya, visibly moved by the spirit of the event, praised the hosts for their dedication and hospitality, noting that Diu had truly risen to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi—emerging as a potential hotspot for beach sports in India. He commended the organizers for providing athletes with not just the infrastructure but also the care and support that reflect the growing maturity of India’s sporting ecosystem.
Special recognition was given to Manipur for clinching the top spot in the medal tally, showcasing remarkable grit and skill—especially in disciplines like pencak silat. Maharashtra followed in second place, and Nagaland earned a place on the podium for the first time in a Khelo India event, finishing third. Dr. Mandaviya expressed deep admiration for the efforts of these states, particularly highlighting Nagaland’s breakthrough moment as a symbol of rising sports potential in the Northeast. He also acknowledged the commendable participation of Jammu and Kashmir and the host territory, DNGDD, for their enthusiastic embrace of the sporting culture.
Over 800 athletes competed in six medal sports including beach soccer, volleyball, kabaddi, open sea swimming, sepak-takraw, and pencak silat. The event also featured traditional and captivating demonstration sports like mallakhamb and tug-of-war, adding a rich cultural flavor to the games. In all, 46 gold medals were contested by participants representing 31 states and Union Territories, making the event a true national celebration.
Reflecting on the broader purpose of the event, Dr. Mandaviya shared an uplifting message: “In sports, no one truly loses—you either win or you learn.” This sentiment echoed through the closing ceremony at the INS Khukri Memorial, where camaraderie and pride were as evident as competition and achievement.
Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Srimati Raksha Nikhil Khadse, echoed this optimism, stating that the Khelo India Beach Games had “ushered in a new era” for sports in India. She lauded the young athletes who “lit up the shores of Diu with their brilliance” and emphasized how this initiative has successfully drawn attention to beach and water sports, many of which are less recognized yet rich in excitement and skill.
Srimati Khadse also reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering the youth through the Khelo India mission, which aims to strengthen grassroots sports across the country. She specifically praised the exceptional performances by athletes from the Northeast, acknowledging the vast reservoir of talent in states like Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam. She emphasized that with the right opportunities and support, athletes from the region can rise to national and international acclaim.
As the curtains fall on this inaugural edition of the Beach Games, the event leaves behind not just winners and records, but also lasting memories, new friendships, and a shared belief in the unifying power of sport. The success of the Khelo India Beach Games 2025 has laid a strong foundation for future editions, promising greater recognition for India’s coastal and beach sports and a stronger, more inclusive sporting future for the nation.
