National Games Kick Off in Dehradun: PM Modi Bats for Olympics 2036 and ‘Green Games’
Dehradun – The 38th National Games got off to a grand start in Dehradun with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event, calling it a celebration of India’s sports spirit and a step towards the country's dream of hosting the 2036 Olympics.
Hosting the National Games for the first time, Uttarakhand is buzzing with energy as over 10,000 athletes from 36 states and one union territory compete across 35 sports disciplines. The event, spread across 11 cities in eight districts, also aligns with the state’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.
Games with a Green Touch
PM Modi highlighted a special theme this year—Green Games. From trophies and medals made of e-waste to a tree being planted for every medal winner, the event is setting sustainability goals.
A dedicated Sports Forest is also being developed near the venue, where athletes and guests will plant over 10,000 saplings.
India’s Big Sports Push
PM Modi said sports is now a major driver of India’s growth, linking it to the economy and job creation. He pointed out that Meerut alone has over 35,000 sports equipment factories employing lakhs of people. “When a country excels in sports, its global reputation also rises,” he added.
The Prime Minister stressed that the Khelo India program is transforming sports infrastructure, and the sports budget has more than tripled in the last decade. He mentioned new initiatives like the Khelo India Para Games and Beach Games, while recalling his recent interaction with India’s Olympics team, where an athlete called him ‘Param Mitra’ (Best Friend) instead of Prime Minister.
2036 Olympics in Sight
Pitching hard for India to host the 2036 Olympics, PM Modi said, "The Olympics is not just about sports; it transforms infrastructure, tourism, and connectivity." He emphasized that Uttarakhand hosting the National Games itself will boost local tourism and employment.
Uttarakhand: A New Sports Destination?
PM Modi linked sportsmanship with Uttarakhand's recent decision to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), saying both stand for equality and inclusivity. He urged the state to explore winter tourism beyond Char Dham Yatra, encouraging youth to visit Uttarakhand for adventure sports.
Fitness First!
In a final message, PM Modi urged people to focus on fitness, reduce oil consumption by 10% monthly, and embrace an active lifestyle. “A healthy India needs healthy people,” he said, before declaring the National Games open.
With Uttarakhand stepping onto the national sports stage for the first time, all eyes are on the athletes who will not just compete for medals but also showcase the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
