New Delhi: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, has extended his warmest congratulations to Manipur and Nagaland for their stellar performances at the maiden Khelo India Beach Games, held in Diu from May 19 to 24. Manipur etched its name in history by emerging as the overall champion, while Nagaland secured an impressive third place, marking their first-ever top-three finish at a Khelo India event.
In an official statement released by SAI Media, Mandaviya also heaped praise on the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (DNGDD) for their flawless execution in hosting this landmark sporting spectacle. The games concluded with a grand closing ceremony at the iconic INS Khukri Memorial in Diu.
“Diu has always held a special place in my heart, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Union Territory for successfully hosting the Khelo India Beach Games 2025,” stated Mandaviya. He further added, “Manipur has displayed exceptional courage and skill, particularly in pencak silat, and Nagaland’s top-three finish is a significant milestone. This truly underscores the immense sporting potential that resides in the Northeast.”
The beach sports carnival witnessed over 800 athletes from 31 states and Union Territories battle it out in six medal events, including pencak silat, sepak takraw, soccer, volleyball, open sea swimming, and kabaddi. Demonstration sports such as mallakhamb and tug-of-war also added to the excitement. A total of 46 gold medals were fiercely contested during the event.
Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Srimati Raksha Nikhil Khadse, who graced the closing ceremony as the chief guest, remarked, “The Khelo India Beach Games have truly ushered in a new era. Our young athletes have indeed illuminated the shores of Diu with their brilliant performances.”
She further emphasised the growing prominence of the Northeast in India’s sports landscape, asserting, “Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam have unequivocally demonstrated that the region is brimming with raw talent. It is our government’s paramount priority to fully harness this potential by providing the right support and robust infrastructure.” The Khelo India Beach Games serve as a crucial step in expanding India’s grassroots sports culture and spotlighting emerging talent in beach and water-based disciplines, promising a bright future for these unique sporting endeavours.
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