Uttarakhand is set to host the 38th edition of the National Games, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate the event on January 28. This marks a significant moment in India’s sports calendar as the state prepares to welcome over 10,000 athletes, coaches, and officials across 38 sports disciplines.
Uttarakhand’s First National Games Hosting
Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, confirmed the announcement and expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi for agreeing to inaugurate the prestigious event. “I would like to thank PM Modi. We had urged him to inaugurate the National Games. PM has agreed to inaugurate the Games. We also informed him about the winter yatra and urged him to stay here for a day during this yatra,” Dhami stated.
देवभूमि उत्तराखण्ड में हो रहे 38वें राष्ट्रीय खेलों का आयोजन हम सभी के लिए एक गौरव का क्षण है। राष्ट्रीय खेलों के सफल आयोजन हेतु हमारे समर्पित वॉलंटियर्स अपनी श्रमदान की आहुति देकर इस महायज्ञ का हिस्सा बन रहे हैं। राष्ट्रीय खेलों के सभी वॉलंटियर्स को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं!… pic.twitter.com/og2tN4HfN0
— Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) January 8, 2025
This event, which will run from January 28 to February 14, will feature 32 sporting disciplines and 4 demonstration events. It will include the introduction of traditional sports such as kalarippayattu, yogasana, mallakhamb, and rafting, alongside Olympic-style competitions. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha emphasized the importance of this event in promoting both traditional and modern sports in the country.
A Landmark Event for Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand’s role as the host for the 38th National Games will enhance the state’s image as a sporting hub. As the event will span several cities, it is expected to draw attention to Uttarakhand’s infrastructure and tourism potential, boosting the local economy.
The National Games have been a staple in the Indian sporting calendar, bringing together athletes from across the country to compete in a variety of sports. The inclusion of demonstration sports also reflects India’s commitment to showcasing its cultural heritage.
The 2025 edition promises to be a landmark event, further strengthening the nation’s commitment to promoting a well-rounded sports culture. As PT Usha noted, “The inclusion of traditional sports reflects our commitment to honouring India’s rich heritage while encouraging new opportunities for athletes.”
Historical Context of the National Games
The last National Games took place in Goa in 2023, where Maharashtra emerged as the top performer with 228 medals, including 80 golds. The previous edition, hosted by Gujarat in 2022, marked the revival of the National Games after a seven-year hiatus, with Services dominating the medal tally.
