National Sports Day is a day celebrated to honour and commemorate the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, one of India’s greatest field hockey players. The legendary is considered a pivotal figure in Indian sports history and is known for his exceptional skills, particularly in the sport of field hockey.
The day is celebrated throughout India to promote the importance of sports and physical activities in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and overall well-being. The government has undertaken several initiatives over the years to promote sports and physical activities in the country.
Government’s Grand Slam For Sports In India
These initiatives aim to develop a strong sports culture, nurture talent, provide infrastructure, and support athletes at various levels.
1. Khelo India Programme
Launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Khelo India Programme is a comprehensive initiative aimed at promoting sports at the grassroots level. It includes programs such as Khelo India Youth Games, which provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and receive financial support for training.
2. National Sports Development Fund (NSDF)
The NSDF is an initiative that aims to mobilize resources for the development of sports in India. It provides financial support to athletes for training, coaching, and international competitions.
3. Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
The scheme identifies and supports potential medal winners for the Olympic Games. Athletes under the TOPS program receive customized training and other support to improve their chances of winning medals at international events.
4. Sports Authority of India (SAI)
Sports Authority of India (SAI) is a government agency that contributes significantly to sports development in India by providing athletes with the necessary resources, guidance, and opportunities to excel at both national and international levels.
5. Special Initiatives for Women in Sports
The Indian government has also launched several special initiatives to promote women’s participation in sports and to provide them with equal opportunities to excel.
These include National Women’s Hockey League, Nari Shakti Puraskar, Saksham and Gender Sensitization Workshops.
These initiatives collectively aim to develop a strong sports ecosystem in India, nurturing talent, providing necessary resources, and fostering a culture of sports and physical fitness.