The first Khelo India Beach Games, 2025, have officially started at the beautiful Ghoghla Beach in Diu. The event was inaugurated with great fanfare by Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, along with other dignitaries. Among the notable guests were the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Shri K. Kailashnathan, and Admiral D.K. Joshi from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The opening ceremony was enlivened by performances from the famous Gujarati singer Geeta Rabari, who entertained the audience with her melodious songs. Following this, distinguished athletes and sports leaders were honoured. The guests were then taken to the Field of Play (FOP), where young athletes showcased various beach sports.
Shri T. Arun, the Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports, welcomed all the guests and provided insights into the infrastructure development of sports in the Union Territory. He also discussed the planning of the Khelo India Beach Games, 2025.
In his address, Shri K. Kailashnathan expressed his gratitude for being in Gujarat, a state he has long regarded as his workplace. He emphasized that the Khelo India Beach Games, 2025, is a significant initiative to strengthen sports at the grassroots level. He acknowledged the invitation extended by Shri Praful Patel, the Administrator of DNH and Diu, to host the games.
Admiral D.K. Joshi also spoke at the event, highlighting how sports instil discipline and energy in youth, which ultimately shapes the country’s future. He congratulated Shri Praful Patel for the rapid urban development and tourism growth in Diu and wished all athletes success.
Minister Mandaviya praised Diu’s scenic beauty, mentioning the splendid fort and coastline. He reiterated the Prime Minister’s commitment to fulfilling the dreams of the youth through initiatives like the Khelo India Beach Games, which empower young people and, by extension, strengthen the nation.
The advisor to the Administrator, Shri Amit Singla, read a message from the Prime Minister, highlighting Diu as an attractive venue for beach games. Following this, Minister Mandaviya lit the torch, symbolising pride and dedication to sports, marking the official opening of the games.
The ceremony concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that mesmerised the audience. Shri Praful Patel expressed heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Modi for his affection towards Diu and his vision for making it a permanent venue for beach games. He discussed ongoing projects worth crores in Diu, promising that it would soon become a highly attractive destination.
The Khelo India Beach Games, 2025, aim to popularise beach sports and inspire young athletes across the country. With a focus on youth empowerment through sports, this event is a significant step towards fostering a sporting culture in India. The community and local government are excited about the potential of Diu as a hub for beach sports and tourism, showcasing the region’s beauty and talent on a national stage.
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