Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually inaugurated the seventh edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025, marking a historic moment as Bihar hosts the prestigious national sports event for the first time.
The launch, held virtually, was attended by thousands of young athletes, coaches, and support staff from across the country.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi commended the dedication and discipline of young athletes, stating that their hard work reflects the spirit of a ‘New India’.
He noted that sports are becoming an essential part of India’s cultural identity, and the nation takes immense pride in the accomplishments of its sportspersons.
The Prime Minister highlighted the scale of the event, which will be held across Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai, with over 6,000 athletes participating.
He wished all players success and emphasised that the Khelo India Youth Games provide a valuable platform for aspiring athletes to gain national exposure.
PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to nurturing talent through regular competitions.
He underlined that events like the Khelo India University Games, Winter Games, Youth Games, and Para Games ensure that athletes receive ample opportunities to grow.
Citing cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Bihar, he stressed how consistent exposure to matches has helped young talents shine on national platforms like the IPL.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s aspiration to host the Olympics in 2036, calling it a “long-cherished dream of every Indian”.
He said efforts are already underway to identify talent at the school level and provide structured training through initiatives like Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
PM Modi praised the incorporation of traditional Indian games such as Gatka, Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu, Kho-Kho, and Yogasana into the KIYG programme.
He also acknowledged India’s rising success in emerging disciplines like Wushu, Sepak Takraw, Pencak Silat, Lawn Bowls, and Roller Skating.
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He recalled the pride brought home when India’s women’s team won a medal in Lawn Bowls at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, noting how such achievements elevate India’s sporting profile globally.
The Prime Minister revealed that the sports budget has more than tripled in the past decade, reaching nearly ₹4,000 crore, with substantial funding allocated to infrastructure.
More than 1,000 Khelo India Centres are now active across India, including over three dozen in Bihar.
He highlighted developments in Bihar, such as the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence in Rajgir, Bihar Sports University, and the State Sports Academy, as well as the ongoing construction of a Sports City along the Patna–Gaya Highway.
Beyond athletic competition, PM Modi spoke about the expanding sports economy, noting job creation in fields like sports technology, physiotherapy, broadcasting, data analytics, coaching, and sports law.
He said, “Today, a stadium is no longer just a venue for matches but a source of thousands of jobs.”
He also emphasised how the National Education Policy integrates sports into mainstream education, opening new avenues for students and professionals alike.
Encouraging athletes to become ambassadors of unity, the Prime Minister further called on them to uphold the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
He also invited visiting participants to enjoy Bihar’s culinary delights, including Litti Chokha and the state’s famed Makhana.
As PM Modi officially declared the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 open, he expressed confidence that the event would foster a greater spirit of patriotism and sportsmanship among participants and leave lasting memories for all.
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