Historic Launch: First-Ever Khelo India Beach Games Inaugurated in Diu
Diu, May 20, 2025: In a landmark moment for Indian sports, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated the first-ever Khelo India Beach Games at the beautiful Ghoghla Beach in the Union Territory of Diu.
During the opening ceremony, Dr. Mandaviya addressed an enthusiastic gathering, highlighting the Modi government’s ongoing efforts to transform India into a global sports powerhouse. He stated, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is not just participating in sports but is leading initiatives that celebrate diversity, tradition, and athleticism.”
The event features over 1,000 athletes from various parts of India, competing in six official medal events: beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach kabaddi, beach sepak takraw, pencak silat, and open water swimming. Additionally, two traditional Indian sports—mallakhamb and tug-of-war—are being showcased as demonstration events, providing a perfect blend of modern and indigenous games.
Organized under the Khelo India initiative, these beach games represent a significant expansion of the government’s mission to promote grassroots sports while embracing India’s vast and diverse geography. This marks the first time the beach format has been incorporated into the Khelo India framework, reflecting a new approach to competitive sports and talent scouting in the country.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse, Union Territory Administrator Praful Patel, and several prominent athletes. The event featured a colorful cultural presentation, including Gujarat’s iconic Garba dance.
Over the next six days, Ghoghla Beach will transform into a vibrant sports arena, culminating in a grand finale on Saturday. The games not only aim to discover and nurture sporting talent but also intend to boost tourism and raise awareness about India’s coastal heritage.
The Khelo India Beach Games in Diu serve as a vibrant tribute to India’s youth, culture, and competitive spirit, setting a new benchmark in the nation’s sporting journey.
