Preparations for the upcoming National Sports Day celebration and Khelo India Samwad 2026 – Khel Ki Baat, PM Modi Ke Saath were highlighted at a press conference held at Symphony Café, Kohima, on August 24. District youth officer, MY Bharat Kohima, Pradeep J., and State APS, MY Bharat Nagaland, Ruokuovikho Chale, briefed the media on the programme’s preparations.
National Sports Day, traditionally observed on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, will this year be held on August 27 with a focus on youth participation, sports development, and nation-building. In Kohima, the Khelo India Samwad and Yuva Connect programmes will be conducted simultaneously at Don Bosco College, Kohima, and Kohima Science College, Jotsoma.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually address over 8 lakh young participants across 1,600 locations nationwide. Following his address, local sessions will provide opportunities for youth to interact with Ministers, MPs, MLAs, and other leaders. Local archery sportspersons Limshito Yumchunger and Rovine Domeh will also engage with MY Bharat volunteers and participants, sharing their experiences to inspire the younger generation.
The programme will highlight India’s sports infrastructure transformation over the past 12 years, with discussions on grassroots sports development and opportunities for young athletes. A 15-minute Youth Samvaad will allow participants to share ideas under four themes: strengthening grassroots sports, nurturing talent for the 2036 Olympics, enhancing youth leadership in governance, and empowering youth with future-ready skills.
Suggestions and feedback will be collected digitally through a QR code at the venues, while participants will also take part in the on-the-spot VBYLD Quiz. Officials have invited youth, sports enthusiasts, and media representatives to join the programme and contribute to the national dialogue on sports and youth development.
