PM Modi Remembers Fauja Singh, Highlights His Life In Sports And Fitness

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday highlighted the importance of sports and fitness in people's lives, recalling the example of veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh during his virtual address to the nation's youth at the Khelo India Dialogue. Modi described Singh's life as an inspiration for the connection between regular physical activity, sports and quality of life. Singh, who competed in a marathon at the age of 100, died last year at the age of 114.

Addressing participants through Khelo India Samvad, Modi noted Singh's dedication to running and fitness even at an advanced age. He described the veteran athlete as an example of how a sustained connection with sports can contribute to an active life. Modi urged young people to draw inspiration from such examples and recognise physical activity as an important part of everyday life.

The Prime Minister also pointed to the growing participation of people across India in different sporting and fitness activities. He referred to events such as 5K and 10K races and triathlons, as well as recreational sports including pickleball and badminton. According to Modi, these activities indicate that sports are increasingly becoming part of people's routines rather than remaining limited to professional athletes or organised competitions.

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Modi also stressed that sports should not be viewed merely as a co-curricular activity in schools. He noted that sports are increasingly being considered alongside studies and career planning, with students and families showing greater interest in sporting opportunities. He argued that treating sports as part of everyday life can help expand India's talent pool and provide greater support to young people who want to pursue sports professionally.

The Prime Minister further drew a comparison between playgrounds and digital entertainment, urging young people to give greater importance to physical sporting spaces. He said sports centres and playgrounds have an important role in encouraging participation and developing sporting culture among children and youth. According to Modi, a strong sports culture can emerge when sporting activities become accessible and relevant to ordinary people.

Modi concluded by expressing confidence in India's youth and their ability to contribute to the country's sporting future. He encouraged young people to participate in sports whether at competitive or recreational levels and noted that there are multiple ways to remain connected with the sporting ecosystem. He emphasised that greater participation among India's youth can strengthen the country's wider sports culture and help create more opportunities for future athletes.

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