India observes National Sports Day on birth anniversary of hockey legend Dhyan Chand

August 29, the birth anniversary of the legendary hockey player, Dhyan Chand, is observed as National Sports Day in India. 

”On National Sports Day, I congratulate all sports persons and sports enthusiasts who pursue sports with great vigour and passion.

I pay tributes to the exemplary Major Dhyan Chand, whose legendary sporting skills did wonders for Indian hockey.

Sports is about physical fitness, mental alertness and personality enhancement.

India is blessed with immense sporting talent. To harness this potential, a portal was launched by India Sports.

The National Sports Talent Search Portal gives essential direction & support to youngsters to pursue their sporting aspirations and shine," the Prime Minister said.

On Tuesday, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (I/C), Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Vijay Goel and the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju paid floral tributes at the statue of Late Major Dhyan Chand, in New Delhi, on his 112th Birth Anniversary.

Later, he also addressed the gathering as part of the “National Sports Day” celebration.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted, "Remembering the 'Magician of Hockey' Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary today which is being celebrated as the National Sports Day."

Smriti Irani, Union Cabinet Minister of Textiles and Information & Broadcasting (Additional Charge), tweeted, "Remembering Major Dhyan Chand for his contribution to our National Game & extending my best wishes to sportspersons on #NationalSportsDay.

On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind will present the Arjuna and Dhyan Chand awards to some of the sports persons of the country who have made key contributions in various disciplines.

Images: PIB