Making India Fit: National Sports Day 2025

National Sports Day aligns with India’s vision of hosting the Olympic & Paralympic Games in 2036 by promoting mass participation in sports and fitness activities and showcasing the world that sports in India are rapidly evolving. The celebrations on this day is a collective celebration of sports and embracing Olympic values of Friendship, Respect & Excellence and Paralympic values of Determination, Courage, Inspiration & Equality.

Policy Framework for Sporting Excellence 

The recently enacted Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 or National Sports Policy aims to harness the potential of sports to drive excellence. Economic growth and social progress, while promoting overall well-being. The policy builds on the foundation of  National Sports Policy-2001, the Khelo India Scheme and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) to create a conducive ecosystem for Olympics 2036. It includes a range of activities aimed at bolstering  sports programs, leagues and competitions, while focusing on physical literacy, outreach and awareness.

Similarly, the recently passed National Sports Governance Act 2025 is a historic act that sets new standards in governance, transparency & athlete welfare. In light of recent controversies surrounding the sport fraternity, the formation of the National Sports Election Panel under the Act is expected to enhance trust and strengthen good governance in sport bodies. The Code of Conduct, Safe Sports Policy, and Grievance Redressal Mechanism will also help all stakeholders be involved in sporting decisions. The act also lays down provisions for the formation of National Sports Tribunal that will hear all the litigations pending in court, unburdening the courts and saving unnecessary expenditure. Quicker dispute resolution will also free up resources that can be better used for development of sports. 

With these acts the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is laying the groundwork to ensure that India is not only a developed nation by 2047, but also a global sporting superpower. 

India for Olympics 2036 

India is not only aiming to finish among the top 10 nations in the 2036 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, but also be a host for the same and boost sports tourism. While the bid to be a host is ambitious, India is preparing itself through positive policy initiatives, massive investments in infrastructure and a nationwide sports ecosystem. India’s medal-winning roadmap can be made possible only if the National Sports Federations, State governments and corporate houses work together towards the goal. 

The ‘One Corporate One Sport’ initiative is an important call for corporates and PSUs to become a critical pillar in increasing the outreach and impact of sports in the country. It also serves as a blueprint for businesses to make a tangible impact while aligning with their CSR goals.  The Ministry is also focusing on talent development through National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) to help athletes reach elite divisions and cater to potential international medal winners.

Given the enormity of the task at hand, it is imperative that States come together to work with schools, local organisations and corporates to recognise, build and promote talent at the grassroots. By creating a fit, active, and internationally competitive sporting nation, India is being propelled towards the realization of Viksit Bharat.