Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) 2025, inaugurated in Diu, as a turning point in the nation’s sporting journey. Emphasising the transformative power of sports, the Prime Minister said the event marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s sporting history and cultural celebration of its coastal heritage.
In a message to the organisers and athletes, PM Modi stated, “As waves lash the shores and athletes compete, India will script a new sporting chapter. Diu, with its sun, sand, and sea, is a perfect setting for such a sporting revolution.”
The first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games was officially declared open by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, at a grand ceremony held on Ghoghla Beach, Diu. The vibrant opening showcased India’s traditional art forms and was attended by dignitaries including Administrator Shri Praful Patel, Lt Governor of Puducherry Shri K. Kailashnathan, and Admiral DK Joshi, Lt Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
“Today, we are not just inaugurating a sports event, we are heralding India’s first beach sports revolution,” said Dr. Mandaviya. “Under PM Modi’s vision, sports is a mission — a mission that connects youth, fitness, employment and the dream of a Viksit Bharat.”
1,350+ Athletes Compete Across Six Medal Events
The Games have brought together over 1,350 athletes from more than 30 states and Union Territories, competing from May 19 to 24, 2025. Athletes will vie for medals in six beach sports:
- Beach Soccer
- Beach Volleyball
- Beach Sepaktakraw
- Beach Kabaddi
- Pencak Silat
- Open Water Swimming
In addition, Mallakhamb and Tug-of-War will be showcased as demonstration (non-medal) events.
KIBG 2025: a boost for sports infrastructure and coastal development
Held under the Khelo India Scheme’s sports competition and talent development vertical, the Beach Games aim to promote beach sports in India and diversify the nation’s sports calendar.
Dr. Mandaviya stressed that such events send a strong signal to the global sporting community that India is capable of hosting world-class competitions. “This is not a casual affair. It is a strategic effort to build a robust domestic sports ecosystem,” he said.
The Minister further stated that sports like beach volleyball and soccer not only entertain but also provide career opportunities for youth, aligning with the government’s objective of turning sports into a viable profession.
A new normal in Indian culture: fitness and sports
In his message, Prime Minister Modi said that sports play a unifying role in a diverse nation like India, and initiatives like KIBG reflect the growing cultural importance of sports and fitness.
“The vibrant energy of sports goes beyond entertainment — it is a transformative force, symbolising national pride and youth aspirations,” the Prime Minister added.
Dr. Mandaviya echoed this by calling India a “fitness-conscious nation where sports is becoming the new normal.” He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening sports and infrastructure in the Union Territories.
Quick Links:
Official Website: https://beach.kheloindia.gov.in/
Medal Tally: https://beach.kheloindia.gov.in/medal-tally
