Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of National Sports Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand.
In a message posted from Tokyo, where he is currently on a two-day official visit, PM Modi highlighted the transformation of India’s sporting landscape over the past decade and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making India a global hub for sporting excellence.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Greetings on National Sports Day! On this special occasion, we pay tribute to Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose excellence continues to inspire generations.”
“In the last decade, India’s sporting landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation. From grassroots programmes that nurture young talent to creating world-class facilities, we are seeing a vibrant sports ecosystem in our nation. Our government remains committed to supporting athletes, building infrastructure and making India a global hub for sporting excellence,” the post added.
In the capital, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya led the tributes by laying flowers at the statue of Major Dhyan Chand at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.
Mandaviya shared images from the tribute ceremony on X and posted, “On the occasion of National Sports Day today, a floral tribute was offered to the wizard of hockey, Major Dhyan Chand Ji, on his birth anniversary.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his respects and lauded Major Dhyan Chand’s unmatched contributions to Indian sport, especially during challenging times.
Taking to X, he posted, “On this day of his birth anniversary, salutations to Major Dhyan Chand ji, the wizard of hockey who has made India’s talent in hockey wave the flag across the entire world, and heartfelt wishes to all on ‘National Sports Day’.”
“In the era of slavery, with limited resources, the unwavering dedication and hard work with which Major Dhyan Chand ji established his mettle in the world of hockey is unparalleled. Major Dhyan Chand ji, who inspires the continuous promotion of the development of hockey and other sports in the country, will forever remain alive in the memory of the countrymen,” the post further read.
National Sports Day, observed annually on August 29, not only celebrates the life of Major Dhyan Chand but also underscores the importance of fitness and sports participation at every level of society.
The government’s renewed focus on sports includes investments in training infrastructure, talent scouting at the grassroots level, and international exposure for emerging athletes.
Programmes like Khelo India and TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) have been key pillars in the sporting revival.
PM Modi’s message on National Sports Day comes at a time when Indian athletes are increasingly making their mark on global platforms, from the Olympics to the World Championships, signalling a new era for Indian sport.
As celebrations continue nationwide, the day serves not only as a tribute to one of India’s greatest sporting legends but also as a reaffirmation of the country’s ambition to excel on the world stage.
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