PM Modi Honors Major Dhyan Chand, Boosts Sports Vision

New Delhi, Aug 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid rich tributes to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand on his birthday, using the occasion to emphasize the government's commitment to making India a "global hub for sporting excellence".

August 29 marks National Sports Day in honor of Major Dhyan Chand, celebrated as the greatest field hockey player in history, who led India to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936 through his remarkable skills and goal-scoring prowess.

The national hockey stadium in New Delhi is named after this legendary sportsman.

"Greetings on National Sports Day! On this special occasion, we pay tribute to Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose excellence continues to inspire generations," the Prime Minister wrote on 'X'.

Reflecting on the changing face of sports in India, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his government's dedication to fostering a culture of sports and fitness, enhancing support for athletes, and expanding access to modern training and competition venues throughout the country.

"India's sporting landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last decade. From grassroots programs nurturing young talent to creating world-class facilities, we are witnessing a vibrant sports ecosystem in our nation.

Our government remains committed to supporting athletes, building infrastructure, and making India a global hub for sporting excellence," Modi declared.

Following a ceremony held at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed confidence that the National Sports Governance Bill, recently passed in Parliament, will elevate India to a sporting powerhouse.

"By passing the Sports Governance Bill, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has worked towards positioning India among the top sporting nations," the minister stated.

"Sports have been part of India's tradition for centuries.

Under Modi ji's leadership, India is advancing towards becoming a sports superpower. On Major Dhyan Chand's birth anniversary, I pay him countless respects and extend my heartfelt wishes to fellow countrymen on National Sports Day," Mandaviya added.

The minister urged people to dedicate at least an hour to sports to effect change in the sporting landscape.

"Let's make this day even more meaningful—spend at least one hour on the sports field," he encouraged.

(Only the headline of this report may have been reworked by Editorji; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)