**New Delhi:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with young athletes across the country on Thursday through the **‘Khelo India Dialogue – Khel Ki Baat, Prime Minister Modi Ke Saath’** program. Organized on the occasion of National Sports Day 2026, the Prime Minister linked sports to the development of youth and the nation’s identity, stating, *”Jo khelega, woh khilega”* (“Those who play, will blossom”).
The Prime Minister remarked that an athlete’s achievements often strengthen the national identity of their home town and state. Extending his wishes on National Sports Day, he called upon the youth to make sports an integral part of their lives.
**Virtual Event Across 1,500+ Institutions**
* **Reach:** Broadcast virtually across more than 1,500 educational institutions, including IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, premier medical colleges, and universities.
* **Objective:** Build a robust, broad-based sports ecosystem in the country.
* **Core Priorities:**
* Strengthening grassroots sports infrastructure.
* Enhancing coaching standards and competitive opportunities.
* Scouting talent and involving youth in sports governance.
* Equipping youth with essential skills, volunteering opportunities, and avenues for nation-building.
**Early Talent Identification for the 2036 Olympics**
* **Target Age Group:** Scouting and nurturing talent early among children aged **5 to 15 years**.
* **Key Strategy:** Implementing programs like *Talent Hunt* and *Talent Hub* to discover hidden potential.
* **Goal:** Expand India’s podium potential across diverse sporting disciplines to significantly improve its overall medal tally at the 2036 Olympic Games.
* **Government Commitment:** Assured full support, modern training facilities, and resources for aspiring athletes.
**Shifting Mindsets and Say No to Drugs**
* **Cultural Shift:** Sports is no longer viewed merely as leisure or an alternate career, but as a core pillar of personality development and nation-building.
* **Healthy Lifestyle:** Encouraged youth to adopt healthy habits and stay completely away from drugs.
* **Personalized Growth:** Emphasized that every child possesses unique capabilities, highlighting the importance of matching their interests with the right sport.
