Silchar: The Cachar District Administration marked National Sports Day with a grand celebration at the District Sports Association (DSA) Indoor Stadium in Silchar. The event, held on the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, drew a large gathering of officials, athletes, and sports lovers, reaffirming the district’s dedication to sports and community well-being.

The programme began with floral tributes to Major Dhyan Chand, led by District Commissioner Mridul Yadav, who attended as Chief Guest.

Also present were Additional DC Phyllis Hrangchal, Assistant Commissioners Bonnykha Chetia and Deepa Das, DSA President Shibabrata Dutta, Secretary Atanu Bhattacharjee, and the representative of Silchar MLA, Debashish Shome, along with veterans of the sports fraternity.

In his address, Yadav reflected on Dhyan Chand’s unmatched contribution to Indian hockey and the nation’s golden Olympic era between 1928 and 1936. He reminded the audience that the sporting legend’s influence shaped India’s continued success, including the Olympic triumphs of 1948, 1952, 1956, and the 1964 comeback gold.

“National Sports Day is not just a commemoration—it is a call to action,” he said, underlining the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Linking the occasion with the Fit India Mission, Yadav urged citizens to dedicate an hour each day to physical activity under the campaign Ek Ghanta, Khel Ke Maidan Main.

“Fitness is not a luxury but a necessity for a healthy and productive society,” he added, encouraging schools, colleges, and community groups to embed fitness into daily routines.

The DC also thanked the DSA committee for their cooperation and stressed that strong partnerships between administration and sporting bodies are essential to sustain such initiatives. Concluding, he called on every family in Cachar to make fitness a shared responsibility: “The true spirit of this day lies in turning inspiration into action. Let us make sports and fitness part of everyday life.”

Earlier, District Sports Officer Sartche Terang welcomed the gathering, noting that National Sports Day helps revive sporting culture at the grassroots. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities and infrastructure for young athletes.

Shibabrata Dutta also addressed the event, praising the administration’s proactive role. He said the day was not just a celebration but a step towards building a stronger sports ecosystem in Cachar. “Sports develop character, resilience, and unity. Our role is to support every initiative that empowers local athletes,” he said.

A highlight of the programme was the felicitation of three veteran players from Cachar for their lifelong contribution to sports. Their recognition was met with a standing ovation, reflecting the community’s deep respect for sportsmanship.

The event continued with the district-level badminton competition, where players showcased their skills and competitive spirit.

As part of the extended celebrations, the District Sports Office has lined up more activities: a Chess Competition for Senior Citizens at Narsing HS School, Silchar, on August 30 at 1:00 PM, and an Open Cycle Rally on August 31 at 7:00 AM from Raja G C HS School, Borkhola, to spread awareness about fitness and eco-friendly transport.

National Sports Day, first introduced in 2012, has grown into a nationwide campaign to place sports at the centre of nation-building. In Cachar, this year’s observance not only honoured Major Dhyan Chand’s legacy but also carried forward the message of the Fit India Movement.

With enthusiastic participation from officials, sports associations, and citizens, Cachar’s celebration showcased the district’s enduring spirit of sportsmanship and commitment to health and wellness.

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