Overview

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings and said the government remains committed to supporting athletes, building infrastructure and making India a global hub for sporting excellence.
• The Fit India Mission is running a three-day ‘Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main’ drive from August 29–31, aligned with the 2025 theme of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies through sport.
• The Men’s Hockey Asia Cup began in Rajgir, Bihar, serving as a qualifier for the 2026 World Cup, with India’s coach Craig Fulton and captain Harmanpreet Singh stating the goal is to win the title to secure qualification.
• The Statesman reported that Pakistan withdrew from the Asia Cup citing player safety concerns, changing the tournament field.
• Union sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya referenced the recently passed Sports Governance Bill and urged citizens to spend an hour on the field, as states hosted mass fitness activities and tributes to Major Dhyan Chand.