Khelo India Beach games set to begin at Diu’s Ghoghla Beach from Jan 5

The second edition of the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) will take place from January 5 to 10 at Diu’s scenic Blue Flag Ghoghla Beach, marking the official start of the annual Khelo India competitive calendar. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said the event aims to promote sports participation across all regions, including non-coastal States.

“The Games are expected to see over 800 athletes competing, supported by more than 250 staff, 200 technical officials, and competition managers representing States and Union Territories from across the country,” Mandaviya said.

This year’s programme will feature six main disciplines Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Beach Sepak Takraw, Beach Kabaddi, Pencak Silat, and Open Water Swimming along with two demonstration sports, Mallakhamb and Tug of War. Athletes will compete in an open age category, with nominations made through National Sports Federations based on national championship results and merit-based selection.

Mandaviya highlighted the success of the inaugural KIBG, noting strong participation from non-coastal regions like Manipur and Nagaland, showcasing the inclusive and geography-neutral approach of the Games.

Meanwhile, the Fit India initiative’s “Sundays on Cycle” campaign is gearing up to celebrate its first anniversary on December 21 in Puducherry. Over the past year, more than 50 editions of the event have been held across India from Kargil to Kanyakumari and Kokrajhar to Rajnandgaon engaging diverse groups including armed forces personnel, doctors, and journalists.

In Puducherry, Mandaviya will be joined by Khel Ratna awardees PR Sreejesh and Sharath Kamal, as well as the World Cup bronze-winning junior men’s hockey team. Citizens participating in the movement can earn carbon credits through the Fit India App, which incentivizes fitness activities.

According to the Sports Ministry, over 20 lakh people from nearly 1.63 lakh locations nationwide have taken part in “Sundays on Cycle” over the past year, reflecting the growing popularity of fitness and cycling initiatives across India.