NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday called for a nationwide push to identify and nurture sporting talent among children, saying India must broaden its presence across Olympic disciplines to achieve its ambitions for the 2036 Games.
Addressing the Khelo India Samvaad through video conference, Modi said sports should not be viewed merely as a means to win medals but as a tool to build confidence, discipline, fitness and a stronger society.
With National Sports Day approaching on August 29, the PM paid tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and recalled his contribution to strengthening India-New Zealand sporting ties.
Modi said India’s limited participation in Olympic disciplines was a major challenge. At the 2012 Olympics, India competed in only 13 sports, leaving significant medal opportunities untapped. He called for greater focus on disciplines such as surfing, sport climbing and winter sports, where India’s geography offers considerable potential.
The Prime Minister called for a national talent hunt targeting children aged 5 to 15, with youngsters assessed on both their sporting interests and physical suitability. He assured that the government would work alongside stakeholders to provide the necessary support.
He said specialised sports universities, advanced training centres and international collaborations in sports science, coaching and training were being developed to create a modern sporting ecosystem.
Highlighting the achievements of India’s para-athletes, Modi said sport can transform not only an athlete’s life but also the aspirations and confidence of their families.
He also underlined the role of sports in tackling substance abuse and promoting healthier lifestyles, citing growing public participation in running events, triathlons and fitness challenges.
Calling for stronger grassroots participation, Modi urged schools to make physical education an integral part of education.
“Sports centres are more important than screens. Playgrounds are more important than PlayStations,” he said.
Modi also pointed to expanding career opportunities in sports technology, medicine, nutrition, psychology, analytics and equipment design, urging young Indians to explore the sector beyond competitive athletics.
