Daily News Analysis

National Sports Day

27 Jan,2024 Download Pdf 3 Min Read

12th National Sports Daywas celebrated across India on 29 August.

Why is National Sports Day Celebrated?

Objective: To commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand.
First NSD: August 29, 2012.
Significance: Encourages people of all ages to embrace physical fitness, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
- Serves as a catalyst for developing a robust sports culture in India.

Highlights of NSD 2023:

Theme - "Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society".
National Sports Federations portal launched (for good governance).

Major Dhyan Chand was a field hockey player who played international hockey from 1926 to 1949.
- He was a three-time Olympic gold medalist who secured gold in the 1928, 1932, and 1936 Olympic editions.
His exceptional skills in the game made him earn the title ‘magician of hockey.’
- Dhyan Chand, along with his brother Roop Singh, contributed significantly to India's 35-goal tally, earning them the title of ‘hockey twins.’
- In 1934, Dhyan Chand was honoured with the captaincy of the Indian team.
In 1956, Major Dhyan Chand retired from the army as a Major and was honoured with the Padma Bhushan

National Sports Policy:

India's National Sports Policy functions as a guiding framework channeling the nation's sporting aspirations. This policy underscores grassroots development and talent identification, acknowledging that a strong foundation is vital for sustained success. Athletes, coaches, and the creation of world-class sports infrastructure receive incentives and support, forming a multi-pronged approach that addresses the array of challenges encountered in India's sports sector.

The National Sports Policy outlines a clear roadmap for the holistic growth of sports in the country. It recognizes the importance of nurturing talent from a young age and provides guidelines for the establishment of sports academies and training centers. The policy's emphasis on creating a sports culture at the grassroots level is a testament to its commitment to building a strong foundation for the future.