Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day, which is being observed as a three-day nationwide campaign under the pillars of Tribute, Play and Move. The government has increased investments in India's sporting ecosystem.
Today, National Sports Day is being celebrated across the country to commemorate the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, one of India’s greatest sporting icons. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the Indian Hockey Legend on this occasion. In a social media post, Mr Modi expressed his admiration for Major Dhyan Chand's brilliance in Indian hockey that continues to inspire generations. He also extended his greetings to all sports lovers and emphasized their dedication, passion, and determination make the nation proud.
The three-day nationwide campaign under the pillars of Tribute, Play and Move aims to celebrate India’s rich sporting heritage and encourage people to make sports a regular part of their daily lives.
Union Ministers Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and Arjun Ram Meghwal participated in a cricket match under the campaign in Delhi. Dr Mandaviya urged people to spend at least one hour on the playing field every week for fitness and health. Mr Meghwal, who plays badminton daily, highlighted the benefits of sports in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress.
The government has made significant investments in India’s sporting ecosystem, with visible results on the global stage. India's performances at major international sporting events reflect the country’s growing strength across Olympic, Paralympic and multi-sport disciplines. In the Union Budget 2026-27, over 4400 crore rupees were allocated to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, compared to just around 1200 crore rupees in 2013-14.
India’s Olympic journey has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years. The country won two medals at Rio 2016, seven at Tokyo 2020 and six medals at Paris 2024. India’s performance at the Paralympic Games has also improved remarkably. The medal tally rose from four at Rio 2016 to 19 at Tokyo 2020. At Paris 2024, India recorded its best-ever Paralympic performance with 29 medals.
Source:
Akashvani News
