National Sports Day: 'We reaffirm commitment to sporting excellence' - PM Modi pays tribute to Major Dhyan Chand

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his greetings to the nation on the occasion of National Sports Day, celebrated every year on August 29 to honour hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the game.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Taking to X, the Prime Minister paid glowing tributes to the hockey legend, whose birthday is commemorated as National Sports Day. “Greetings on National Sports Day! On this special occasion, we pay tribute to Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose excellence continues to inspire generations,” PM Modi wrote.He reflected on India’s evolving sporting culture, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering talent and building robust infrastructure for athletes. “In the last decade, India’s sporting landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation. From grassroots programmes that nurture young talent to creating world-class facilities, we are seeing a vibrant sports ecosystem in our nation. Our government remains committed to supporting athletes, building infrastructure and making India a global hub for sporting excellence,” he added.National Sports Day marks the legacy of Major Dhyan Chand, who guided India to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932 and 1936 with his unmatched stickwork and goal-scoring ability. The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi stands as a lasting tribute to his contributions to Indian hockey.Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who attended a commemorative ceremony at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium alongside several sportspersons, echoed the Prime Minister’s vision. He said the recently passed National Sports Governance Bill will significantly strengthen India’s push to become a sporting powerhouse.“By passing the Sports Governance Bill, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has worked towards placing India among the top sporting nations,” Mandaviya remarked. He urged people across the country to embrace sports in their daily lives, saying: “Let us make this day even more meaningful — be sure to spend at least one hour on the sports field.”Mandaviya also offered heartfelt tributes to Major Dhyan Chand, saying, “On the birth anniversary of the great hockey player, I offer him countless salutations and extend my heartfelt wishes to all fellow countrymen on National Sports Day.”