Archive · 27 Aug 2026
Modi Urges Wider Olympic Participation at Khelo India Dialogue
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to young people through the Khelo India Dialogue.
Boxer Arundhati Chaudhary said he encourages athletes whether they win or lose.
Students said the event taught them about sports policies and athletes’ hard work.
Hearing about injuries and struggles motivated some students.
One student decided she wanted to play sports again.
Modi said India does not compete in many Olympic sports.
He wants India to develop athletes in sports such as surfing and sports climbing.
He also suggested finding talented children between ages five and fifteen and training them early.
Arundhati Chaudhary said Prime Minister Narendra Modi supports athletes after both victories and defeats.
Students at Punjabi University said the Khelo India Dialogue increased their understanding of sports policies and athlete experiences.
One student said the program motivated her to return to sports alongside her studies.
Modi urged India to compete in more Olympic disciplines ahead of preparations for the 2036 Olympics.
He proposed a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify and train athletes early.
- Who
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi, athlete Arundhati Chaudhary, and students from Punjabi University participated in or responded to the Khelo India Dialogue.
- What
- The virtual event discussed athlete support, sports policies, broader participation in Olympic disciplines, and early talent identification.
- When
- Thursday; the articles do not provide a specific date.
- Where
- The event was attended virtually, with reactions reported from Patiala and Punjabi University.
- Why
- Modi said India needs to participate in more Olympic sports to improve its medal prospects and prepare for the 2036 Olympics.
- Event
- Khelo India Dialogue
- Format
- Virtual address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Athlete reaction
- Arundhati Chaudhary said Modi supports athletes during both wins and losses.
- Olympic participation
- Modi said India participated in 13 sports at the 2012 Olympics and did not participate in more than 20 others.
- Talent hunt
- A nationwide search was proposed for children aged 5 to 15.
- Suggested sports
- Surfing and sports climbing were cited as disciplines where India could expand its presence.
- Long-term goal
- The proposals were discussed as part of preparations for the 2036 Olympics.