In 2011, Indian hockey team captain Rajpal Singh’s poignant revelation about the substandard kits provided to his team starkly highlighted the disparity between cricket and other sports in India. It was a painful reminder of the distance we had to cover. Yet today, this narrative contrasts sharply with a new reality: under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India’s sports landscape has undergone a profound transformation.
As we celebrate National Sports Day 2024, let us immerse ourselves in a story that embodies the impact of this evolution.
Meet Kamla, a spirited young girl from a small village in Haryana. Her dreams of a sports career once seemed out of reach, overshadowed by the harsh realities of her impoverished surroundings. Her parents, though deeply supportive, had limited resources and modest expectations and focused mainly on day-to-day survival. Kamla’s world began to shift dramatically as she followed news reports highlighting the remarkable strides India had made in sports under Prime Minister Modi’s guidance.
Her heart swelled with hope as she watched stories of athletes achieving unprecedented success and learnt about government initiatives like the Fit India Movement, launched on National Sports Day in 2019. This initiative aims to integrate fitness into the fabric of daily life, inspiring people across the country to prioritise their health.
Prime Minister Modi’s personal engagement with athletes has created a deep connection between leadership and the sports community. His encouragement and empathy—whether celebrating victories or offering solace during setbacks—have inspired many, including Kamla and her parents. They now see a glimmer of hope that with hard work and dedication, their daughter’s aspirations could become a reality, supported by the very initiatives that are reshaping India’s sporting future.
National Sports Day 2024 not only honours Major Dhyan Chand’s extraordinary legacy but also serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role of sports in our lives. It underscores the importance of physical activity, fosters national unity, and promotes a healthier lifestyle. This day offers a unique opportunity to reflect on how sports has become a cornerstone of our national identity.
India’s historic performance at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou—achieving a record-breaking 107 medals, including 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze—speaks volumes about this transformation. The Indian contingent, consisting of 655 athletes competing in 41 events, achieved the country’s largest representation at the Asian Games, shattering previous records. The prime minister’s inspiring slogan, “Ab ki Baar Sau Paar,” reflected India’s unwavering commitment to reaching new heights in sports. Similarly, India’s exceptional performance at the Asian Para Games 2023, with 111 medals, further signals the nation’s rise as an Asian sports powerhouse.
PM Modi’s dedication to revolutionising India’s sports ecosystem is evident through a range of strategic government initiatives. The Khelo India National Program for Development of Sports, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), and other programs like the National Sports Talent Search Scheme and the Sports Authority of India Training Centres Scheme have fundamentally transformed the sporting environment.
Investment in sports infrastructure has surged under Modi’s tenure. The creation of 1,000 district centres under the Khelo India scheme, the establishment of India’s first National Sports University, and the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University are monumental steps towards building a robust sporting foundation. The introduction of the National Air Sports Policy and the Fit India Movement further exemplify the government’s commitment to fostering a nationwide culture of fitness and sporting excellence.
Prime Minister Modi’s impact extends beyond policy and infrastructure. His personal engagement with athletes has created a profound connection between leadership and the sports community. For instance, he personally congratulated the athletes from the Asian Games and welcomed the Tokyo Olympics contingent with heartfelt words of encouragement. His compassion was evident when he comforted the Indian women’s hockey team after their Tokyo Olympics loss and commended the women’s cricket team for their remarkable performance at the Commonwealth Games.
PM Modi’s hands-on approach and genuine empathy have set him apart as a transformative figure in Indian sports administration. His commitment to improving the sporting ecosystem, combined with transparent governance and targeted initiatives, is paving the way for India to become a global sporting powerhouse.
The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), launched in 2014 and revamped in 2018, provides comprehensive support to elite athletes. This initiative has been pivotal in India’s recent sporting successes, including its best-ever performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics, a Thomas Cup victory after 73 years, and numerous other achievements.
The Khelo India Program, another of Modi’s visionary initiatives, aims to revive India’s sporting culture from the grassroots level. By supporting over 3,000 athletes with scholarships and investments, this program has nurtured a new generation of sports talent. Notably, 125 athletes from the Asian Games were discovered through Khelo India, with more than 40 winning medals. This program also promotes inclusivity, focusing on women, people with disabilities, and rural and indigenous communities.
The transformation of Indian sports under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership is a testament to his vision and dedication. By addressing historical disparities, investing in infrastructure, and fostering a supportive environment for athletes, he is steering India towards a future where sports plays a central role in national pride and achievement.
National Sports Day 2024 stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of sportsmanship and the profound legacy of Major Dhyan Chand. It is a celebration of our collective commitment to sports, a call to embrace physical fitness, and an inspiration for the next generation of athletes. As we honour this day, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering a vibrant sports culture and nurturing the champions of tomorrow.
Tuhin A Sinha, National Spokesperson, BJP, and a popular author. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views.