Nagaland is set to join the nationwide observance of National Sports Day through Khelo India Samwad 2026 – “Khel Ki Baat, PM Modi Ke Saath” and Yuva Connect programmes on August 27, with youth participation, grassroots sports development and nation-building at the centre of the initiative.
This was announced at a press conference held at Symphony Café, Kohima, on August 24, where District Youth Officer, MY Bharat Kohima, Pradeep J, briefed the media on the upcoming programme.
He said while National Sports Day is observed on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, the special pan-India programme this year will be held on August 27.
In Kohima, Khelo India Samwad and Yuva Connect will be organised simultaneously at Don Bosco College, Kohima, and Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, with participants, guests and volunteers required to report at the venues by 10 a.m.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to virtually address more than eight lakh young participants across 1,600 locations nationwide. The virtual interaction will be followed by local sessions providing young participants an opportunity to engage with Ministers, MPs, MLAs and other public representatives.
Nagaland archery sportspersons Limshito Yumchunger and Rovine Domeh will also interact with MY Bharat volunteers and youth during the programme. They will share their sporting experiences and motivate young participants to pursue sports and excellence.
The programme will focus on India’s transformation in sports infrastructure and the broader sports ecosystem over the past 12 years, with particular emphasis on grassroots development and opportunities for young athletes.
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A 15-minute Youth Samvaad will provide participants an opportunity to share their ideas and aspirations on strengthening the grassroots sports ecosystem, nurturing talent for the 2036 Olympics through scientific talent identification and athlete development, enhancing youth leadership and participation in governance, and empowering young people through future-ready skills, volunteering and nation-building opportunities.
Youth suggestions and feedback will be collected digitally through a dedicated QR code at the venues. Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in the on-the-spot VBYLD Quiz, while the National Service Scheme (NSS) will oversee venue management at both locations.
MY Bharat Kohima has invited young people, sports enthusiasts and members of the media to participate in the programme and contribute to the wider national dialogue on sports, youth development and nation-building.
State APS, MY Bharat Nagaland, Ruokuovikho Chale, also briefed the media on preparations, stating that MY Bharat Nagaland is coordinating closely with the Department of Youth Resources and Sports. Commissioner and Secretary Anthony Ngullie and his team are monitoring the preparations to ensure the programme is conducted in a purposeful and systematic manner.
Chale said the initiative is particularly significant for Nagaland’s youth and sports fraternity, providing a platform for young people to voice their aspirations and contribute to discussions on the future of sports and youth development in the State.
