India’s First Khelo India Beach Games Kick Off in Diu

GG News Bureau
Diu, 20th May: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) as a “transformative force” in the sporting landscape of India, calling the event a historic step that adds a new chapter to the country’s sports movement. The inaugural edition of the KIBG was officially declared open by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, at a grand ceremony held at Ghoghla Beach in Diu.

In a message to organisers and participants, Prime Minister Modi said the Games embody the power of sports to unify and inspire the nation. “The Beach Games promise to make waves in India’s sporting calendar. Diu, with its blend of sun, sand, and sea, is a fitting venue to celebrate our coastal heritage through sport,” he stated.

Under the expansive Khelo India initiative, this first-ever beach edition has drawn over 1,350 athletes from more than 30 States and Union Territories, who will compete in six medal disciplines — Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Sepaktakraw, Beach Kabaddi, Pencak Silat, and Open Water Swimming — until May 24. Additionally, Mallakhamb and Tug-of-War are featured as demonstration sports.

Speaking at the opening, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya called the Games the start of India’s “Beach Sports Revolution”, adding: “Where there are waves, there should be passion; where there is sand, there should be fire. The KIBG has ignited that spirit across the nation.”

Highlighting the broader vision of the Modi government, the Minister stressed that Khelo India is not just about organizing events but connecting sports to employment and empowerment. “For a Viksit Bharat, Khelo India is a sure pathway for youth to achieve their dreams,” he said.

Dr. Mandaviya also underscored how beach sports offer both entertainment and career opportunities, stating that hosting competitive sports on India’s beaches at such a scale is a first. “These Games are a powerful message to the world — that India can host international sports events of any size,” he said, adding that India is becoming a fitness-conscious nation and sports are now part of the country’s new cultural normal.

The opening ceremony celebrated India’s vibrant diversity with traditional dance performances and was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Shri Praful Patel, Lt Governor of Puducherry Shri K. Kailashnathan, and Admiral DK Joshi, Lt Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

The Khelo India Beach Games fall under the “Sports Competition and Talent Development” vertical of the Khelo India Scheme and are designed to promote coastal sports and expand their reach across India.

For schedules and medal tally:
 Khelo India Beach Games 2025

 Medal Tally 2025