The Khelo India Beach Games: A Platform for Talented Youngsters
A couple of years ago, talented youngsters across the country had limited opportunities to showcase their skills in major beach games. However, the scenario changed with the inception of the Khelo India Beach Games, currently taking place in Daman and Diu. This event has emerged as a significant platform for aspiring sportspersons to exhibit their talent and potentially make their mark on the international stage.
Empowering Athletes at Khelo India Beach Games
Umabati Patra, hailing from Odisha, clinched the gold medal in Pencak Silat at the second edition of the Khelo India Beach Games. In an interview with IANS, she expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for creating such an impactful opportunity for athletes like her. Patra emphasized how participating in these Games is a remarkable experience and credited the Sports Department of Odisha for their support in training, diet management, and overall facilitation.
She acknowledged the rigorous preparation that led to her victory and extended thanks to her coach, Prem Singh Thapa, for his instrumental role in organizing training sessions. Patra recognized Khelo India as a monumental platform and appreciated Prime Minister Modi for its inception.
Another athlete, Shreya, who secured a bronze medal at the Khelo India Beach Games, shared her exhilaration about winning on such a prestigious platform. She highlighted the event’s significance and likened it to an international competition, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
Khelo India Beach Games 2026: A Spectacular Sporting Event
The ongoing Khelo India Beach Games 2026, managed by the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, is being conducted under the technical supervision of the Sports Authority of India and national sports federations. The event features over 1100 participants competing in eight different sports, including volleyball, soccer, sepaktakraw, kabaddi, pencak silat, open water swimming, mallakhamb, and tug-of-war. Among these, the first six sports will be medal events, offering a total of 32 gold medals.
With its diverse range of sporting disciplines and opportunities for athletes to shine, the Khelo India Beach Games continues to serve as a platform for talent development and recognition on a national scale.
