Fit India to Lead Three-Day Movement
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced that the celebrations will be organised across districts, schools, universities, workplaces, and residential communities. The campaign aims to promote mass participation in fitness and sports, highlighting India’s evolving journey towards becoming a sporting nation.
Aligned with India’s long-term goal of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036, the events will embrace Olympic values of Friendship, Respect, and Excellence, along with Paralympic values of Determination, Courage, Inspiration, and Equality.
Dr. Mandaviya underlined the importance of physical activity in nation-building, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message: “Jo khelte hain, woh khilte hain.” He urged citizens, especially students and employees, to step out of their routines and dedicate “Ek ghanta khel ke maidaan mein” for health and fitness.
“Only healthy citizens can build a prosperous nation. National Sports Day is not only about remembering Major Dhyan Chand ji but also about making fitness a habit,” he said.
Nationwide Activities
On August 29, tributes will be paid to Major Dhyan Chand through commemorative events across the country. Members of Parliament and leading athletes will join local programmes to motivate participants. Stadiums in every district will witness vibrant celebrations as part of this pan-India initiative.
On August 30, Fit India carnivals will take place nationwide, featuring debates, discussions, talks, and competitions on sports and fitness. These events aim to raise awareness and inspire communities to adopt healthier lifestyles.
The celebrations will conclude on August 31 with “Sundays on Cycle”, encouraging citizens to take up cycling as a sustainable fitness practice. To complement the initiative, the Fit India App will launch a new feature on carbon savings to promote eco-friendly fitness habits.
Voices of Sporting Icons
India’s first Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra and football icon Sunil Chhetri have also called on citizens to participate in the movement. Their appeals on social media are expected to inspire greater participation, particularly among the youth.
Policy Push Towards Sporting Superpower
The celebrations tie in with the government’s broader efforts through the Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 and the National Sports Governance Act 2025. These initiatives aim to establish India as a global sporting superpower by 2047, as part of the vision of Viksit Bharat.
By linking sports to both fitness and sustainability, the government hopes to build momentum for a healthier and more active India while creating a global presence in the sporting arena.