Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa is set to mark National Sports Day 2026 with a three day statewide programme from August 28 to 30, celebrating the birth anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand.
The Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, in coordination with the Sports Authority of Goa, will organise the celebrations under the theme “Khelega Bharat, Jeetega Bharat”. The programme will focus on three key pillars: Tribute, Play and Move.
The celebrations will open on August 28 with a walkathon rally at Campal, followed by the inauguration ceremony and competitions for students and the public.
A Beach Volleyball Tournament and Inter Departmental Tug of War will be held at Miramar Beach from 3:30 pm. The activities will bring together media professionals and staff from DSYA, SAG, the Goa Football Development Council and other participating groups.
The events are designed to promote fitness, teamwork and camaraderie while encouraging active participation.
August 29 will be observed under the theme “Play”. The day will feature a quiz competition, table tennis for Divyang students, a sports balls exhibition and the formal National Sports Day function at Campal.
The State Sports Cash Award function will also recognise schools securing first and second positions at the state level, along with meritorious athletes and coaches.
Sporting activities at Atal Stadium, Bambolim, will include a Women’s Tie Breaker Tournament, a 2 km walkathon, Paper Javelin Throw and Shot Put using medicine balls. The day will conclude with the Under 17 Boys final of the Subroto Mukerjee Football Tournament.
The final day on August 30, themed “Move”, will focus on cycling. A Sunday cycling rally for Khelo India athletes and cycling enthusiasts will begin at Peddem Sports Complex and pass through Ucassaim, Aldona, Mayem, Shirgao, Assonora and Tivim before returning to Peddem.
The three day programme aims to encourage fitness, healthy lifestyles and wider participation in sports across schools, communities, government departments and the media fraternity. It will also highlight traditional Goan games and inclusive sporting opportunities while strengthening Goa’s sporting culture.
