Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on India’s youth to embrace sports and fitness as an integral part of everyday life, pointing to the remarkable journey of marathon runner Fauja Singh as an example of how physical activity can contribute to a fulfilling life.
Speaking virtually at the Khelo India Dialogue on Thursday, Modi highlighted Singh’s extraordinary commitment to running and fitness. Singh became widely known for competing in marathons at an age when most people would have long retired from competitive athletics. He died last year at the age of 114, leaving behind a remarkable sporting legacy that continues to inspire people across generations.
Modi said Singh’s life demonstrated the strong connection between staying active, maintaining fitness and enjoying a better quality of life. His story, the prime minister suggested, serves as a reminder that enthusiasm for sports can remain meaningful throughout a person’s life.
The prime minister also pointed to the growing popularity of recreational and competitive sports across India. From 5K and 10K running events to triathlons, badminton and pickleball, more Indians are incorporating physical activity into their routines. While individual activities may appear small, Modi said their wider impact reflects a significant shift in the country’s attitude toward sports.
He noted that sports are increasingly being viewed as more than an extracurricular activity, particularly among students. Families and schools are gradually recognizing athletics as a potential career path while giving physical activity greater importance alongside academics.
Modi stressed that building a strong sports culture requires greater participation at the grassroots level. He encouraged schools to treat sports periods as an essential part of student life rather than simply an additional activity. Greater access to playgrounds, sports facilities and training opportunities, he said, could help expand India’s pool of athletic talent.
The prime minister also urged young Indians to spend more time participating in physical activities rather than being consumed by screens and gaming. He expressed confidence in the country’s youth, describing their participation in sports and society as an important source of India’s strength and future success.
