National Sports Day: My Pledge to Make India a Sporting Powerhouse
On National Sports Day, I pay my heartfelt tribute to the legendary Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose extraordinary dedication, discipline and brilliance made India proud on the world hockey stage.
His life teaches us that sporting greatness is built not only through talent, but through hard work, perseverance, discipline and an unwavering commitment to the nation.
This National Sports Day, I draw inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s sporting vision articulated from the Red Fort on Independence Day.
The Prime Minister announced a massive nationwide talent identification programme for children aged 5 to 15 years, reaching across schools, towns and villages, with the aim of identifying and nurturing sporting talent from a very young age.
This is a powerful vision for the future of Indian sport — because the champions of tomorrow are playing today in our schools, neighbourhoods, villages and local playgrounds.
My Pledge
I pledge to contribute in every possible way towards making India a true Sporting Powerhouse.
Every child should have access to a playground, quality coaching and an opportunity to dream of representing India.
We must build a stronger sporting ecosystem — from grassroots participation and school sports to infrastructure, coaching, talent identification, competitions, professional pathways and international exposure.
We should not only celebrate champions after they win medals.
We must create the environment in which champions are born.
Let us identify talent early.
Let us nurture our young athletes.
Let us discover champions in every corner of India.
Let us give them the facilities, coaching and opportunities they deserve.
From the playgrounds of our neighbourhoods to the podiums of the Olympics — the journey of a champion begins with a single opportunity.
On this National Sports Day, I remember Major Dhyan Chand Ji and pledge to do my part in transforming India into a Sporting Powerhouse.
One India. One Sporting Dream. One Journey — From Playgrounds to Podiums
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳