Imphal, Aug 29: The National Sports Day 2026 celebrations began at the BRIC-Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (BRIC-IBSD), Imphal, with a series of sporting and fitness activities aimed at encouraging a healthy lifestyle, teamwork and greater participation in sports.
National Sports Day is being observed across India from August 28 to 30 under the theme “Tribute, Play, and Move.” The three-day campaign commemorates the birth anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand on August 29 and seeks to encourage people, particularly young citizens, to make sports and physical activity part of their daily lives.
The celebrations at BRIC-IBSD opened with a floral tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, recognising his contribution to Indian hockey and the country’s sporting legacy. Smt. Sanggai Ibemhal, Hockey Coach at the Sports Authority of India (SAI), North Eastern Regional Centre, Imphal, attended the inaugural programme as the Chief Guest.
Dr. Nanaocha Sharma, Director (Additional Charge), BRIC-IBSD, who presided over the event, spoke about the wider importance of sports in everyday life. He highlighted how regular physical activity can promote fitness, discipline, teamwork and mental well-being, while also helping young people develop confidence and a sense of responsibility.
The programme reflected the spirit of the national message “Khelega Bharat, Jeetega Bharat”, with the institute encouraging its staff and scholars to actively participate in sports and fitness activities.
The first day included the Fit India Pledge, a welcome programme, an address by the Director and remarks by the guest sportsperson. Sports uniforms were also distributed to participants. The day featured competitions in badminton, table tennis, blind hit and a spoon race for women, bringing staff and scholars together in a lively sporting environment.
The second day of the celebrations, August 29, will feature football, tug of war and musical chair competitions at the SAI Complex in Imphal. The day will conclude with the announcement of winners and the distribution of prizes to successful participants and teams.
The celebrations will conclude on August 30 with a “Sundays on Cycle” bicycle rally from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. The rally is intended to encourage people to stay physically active and promote greater community participation in fitness activities.
This year’s National Sports Day campaign is centred on three simple ideas — Tribute, Play and Move — along with the call “Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein”, encouraging people to spend time playing and being physically active.
The celebrations at BRIC-IBSD, Imphal, underline the growing importance of sports and fitness beyond competitive achievement. By bringing people together through games, exercise and community activities, the initiative aims to promote healthier habits and contribute to the broader vision of a fitter and more active India.