Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address young people through the Khelo India Dialogue on August 27 as part of the National Sports Day 2026 celebrations. The programme, scheduled for 11 a.m., is being organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) to give young people an opportunity to discuss India’s sporting journey and contribute ideas towards a youth-led Viksit Bharat.
The nationwide programme will involve youth from two colleges in every district across States and Union Territories.
The initiative aims to bring together sports, youth leadership, fitness, volunteering, civic responsibility and nation-building.
Young participants will have an opportunity to share their aspirations and perspectives on India’s sports ecosystem while engaging with the country’s broader development goals.
Following the national-level programme, local interactions will be organised with MY Bharat volunteers, young participants, local sportspersons and public representatives.
The programme will also facilitate interaction between youth interested in sports and leading Indian athletes and medal winners.
A major part of the Khelo India Dialogue will be Yuva Samvaad, where young people will discuss ideas and priorities related to sports and youth development.
1. Strengthening India’s Sports Ecosystem
Participants will discuss ways to improve sporting infrastructure, coaching and sports science while encouraging broader and more inclusive participation.
2. Preparing Sporting Talent for 2036
The dialogue will focus on developing athletes for the 2036 Olympics, including scientific talent identification, transparent selection procedures and long-term athlete development.
3. Youth Leadership and Volunteering
Another theme will focus on creating opportunities for young people to participate in governance and community initiatives through MY Bharat and volunteering platforms.
4. Youth for Viksit Bharat
The programme will explore how young people can contribute to India’s development through civic responsibility, future-ready skills and structured volunteering opportunities.
5. Nasha Mukt Yuva
The fifth theme will address substance abuse among young people, with sports and peer networks being promoted as tools to encourage healthier lifestyles and community participation.
The Nasha Mukt Yuva theme will also connect with the government’s wider anti-drug campaign.
Weekly Jan Bhagidari activities will reinforce the initiative under the Prime Minister’s 100-week nationwide campaign, which was launched on August 2, 2026.
The programme is designed to place young people at the centre of India’s sporting and development agenda. Rather than focusing only on athletic performance, the dialogue connects sports with leadership, volunteering, fitness, skills and responsible citizenship.
The focus on talent identification is particularly significant as India seeks to strengthen its sporting ecosystem and develop athletes capable of competing at the highest international level ahead of the country’s ambitions for the 2036 Olympics.
