National Sports Day 2025 observed as national fitness drive

Honouring the hockey wizard

National Sports Day 2025 observed as national fitness drive: India is preparing to celebrate National Sports Day 2025 as a three-day nationwide campaign from August 29 to 31. The occasion coincides with the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, remembered as one of the most celebrated figures in world hockey. Since 2012, his birth anniversary has been observed to inspire respect for sporting excellence.
Static GK fact: Dhyan Chand’s unmatched skill brought India three Olympic hockey gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936.

Core idea of the campaign

This year’s theme, “Ek Ghanta Khel ke Maidan Main,” urges people to dedicate one hour daily to exercise or outdoor play. The programme links physical activity with healthier routines, improved mental balance, and community well-being.
Static GK fact: The Fit India Mission was started on August 29, 2019 to build awareness about fitness across India.

Scale of participation

The campaign aims to reach more than 35 crore citizens. Activities will be organised in schools, residential colonies, villages, and workplaces. Institutions such as the Indian Olympic Association, the Paralympic Committee of India, and the Sports Authority of India are supporting the initiative. The slogan “Har Gali, Har Maidan, Khele Saara Hindustan” reflects the effort to engage every part of the country.

Role of athletes

Well-known sports personalities are at the forefront of the celebrations. Pranav Soorma, Sumit Antil, Bhavani Devi, Shreyasi Singh, and Vishnu Saravanan will take part in events in their regions. Sporting legends including PV Sindhu, Abhinav Bindra, Sunil Chhetri, Mirabai Chanu, and Manika Batra have also appealed to citizens to actively join.

Event schedule

• August 29: Tributes to Dhyan Chand, administration of the Fit India pledge, and sports activities across all venues.
• August 30: Competitions in indigenous and modern games like kho-kho, kabaddi, volleyball, sack race, and tug of war.
• August 31: Fit India Sunday on Cycle, highlighting cycling as both a fitness practice and a low-carbon transport option.

Fitness for all age groups

The celebrations are designed to involve every generation. Children will take part in traditional and team games, while students will compete in inter-school and college-level contests. Older citizens will be included through yoga sessions, fitness walks, and light community games. Cycling rallies and wellness drives will encourage eco-friendly exercise. Real-time participation will be recorded on the Fit India App.

Sports industry and innovation

Apart from fitness drives, a National Conclave on Sports Manufacturing will highlight Indian innovation in the sector and promote Aatmanirbhar Bharat. A new addition to the Fit India App will allow participants to calculate carbon savings achieved by walking or cycling, combining personal fitness with responsibility towards the environment.
Static GK Tip: India is a leading exporter of sports goods, with hubs located in Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) and Jalandhar (Punjab).

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National Sports Day 2025 observed as national fitness drive: