Over 5,000 Indian colleges participate in Khelo India Samvaad

On August 27, 2026, more than 5,000 colleges across India took part in the Khelo India Samvaad, an event held to mark National Sports Day. The initiative focused on involving young people in conversations about how sports contribute to nation-building. Addressing the participants through a video conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi explained that the value of sports goes beyond competition. He stated, “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.” This gathering linked over 1,500 athletes, coaches, and awardees across approximately 1,600 locations, establishing a broad network for dialogue throughout the country.

While the Samvaad took place on the 27th, National Sports Day is observed every year on August 29 to commemorate the birth of the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. Within this framework, the Khelo India initiative seeks to foster a sporting culture at every level. During the session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a national Talent Hunt specifically for children between the ages of five and 15 years, highlighting the government's commitment to early development. He told the audience that the government would support their athletic pursuits, noting that the role of the youth is central to the future of sports in India.

Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, spoke about how sports are increasingly being recognized as a national priority. He pointed out that the MyBharat platform has already seen participation from over 2.4 crore youth, providing a space for them to contribute to the country's progress. The Minister noted that the Prime Minister’s personal rapport with athletes helps ground his vision for the sector. Additionally, he discussed the introduction of the National Sports Governance Act, a measure designed to improve transparency and accountability within sporting bodies.

After the Prime Minister spoke, Olympic medallist Gagan Narang reflected on his own experiences, observing that advancements in sports administration have led to better resources for current athletes. Sheetal Devi, a Paralympic bronze medallist, discussed how public perception of para-athletes is shifting, with more people recognizing their ability to reach major milestones. The event also featured students from IIT Gandhinagar, who gave presentations on themes such as Olympic goals and youth leadership, illustrating the ongoing efforts to cultivate excellence in the field.

The Khelo India Samvaad represents a step toward broader youth engagement, focusing on creating an environment where more aspiring athletes can participate. As work continues to improve facilities and expand opportunities, the initiative aims to influence the trajectory of Indian sports over the coming years. This sustained support for young athletes is part of a wider effort to encourage a more active and healthier nation.