UGC asked Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across India to organise National Sports Day 2026 celebrations from August 28 to August 30, 2026. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has encouraged universities and colleges to conduct sports, fitness, and physical activity programmes on their campuses.
The initiative aims to increase participation among students and faculty members and promote the importance of sports and fitness in higher education.
National Sports Day 2026: Key Details
- Event: National Sports Day 2026
- Dates: August 28 to August 30, 2026
- Theme: “Khelega Bharat”
- Organiser: University Grants Commission (UGC)
- Participants: Students, faculty members and campus communities
- Focus: Sports participation, physical fitness, and healthy lifestyles
National Sports Day 2026 Celebration in Colleges
As part of the UGC National Sports Day initiative, HEIs are encouraged to organise a range of sports and fitness activities. These may include sporting events, fitness programmes, and other physical activities that encourage students and faculty to participate actively.
The three-day celebration is intended to raise awareness of the role of sports and physical fitness in student life.
National Sports Day 2026 Theme: “Khelega Bharat”
The theme for the National Sports Day 2026 celebration is “Khelega Bharat”. The campaign focuses on encouraging wider participation in sports and building a stronger culture of fitness among young people.
Why Is National Sports Day Celebrated?
National Sports Day in India is observed to honour Major Dhyan Chand, the legendary Indian hockey player. The day also promotes awareness about the importance of sports and physical activity.
As part of the National Sports Day 2026 activities, higher education institutions are expected to encourage students and faculty members to make sports and fitness a regular part of campus life.
National Sports Day is celebrated on August 29 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand.
The Fit India campaign will be observed from August 28 to 30, 2026, under the theme “Khelega Bharat, Jeetega Bharat.”
Universities and colleges are encouraged to conduct sports, fitness and physical activity programmes as part of the campaign.
