India will co-organise the second edition of the United Nations Games, leading in chess and yoga at the annual event that promotes diplomacy and collaboration through sports. The announcement was made by India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, during the Opening Ceremony at the UN headquarters on Wednesday.

“It was an honour to be part of the Opening Ceremony of the Second UN Games. As a co-organiser, India will take the lead on chess and yoga,” Harish shared on X. Highlighting the event’s significance, he added that the Games celebrate unity and international cooperation.

The United Nations Games 2025, scheduled for April-May, aim to strengthen solidarity among Permanent Missions and UN agencies through sports. Yoga will take place on April 9 at the Rose Garden, North Lawn, while chess will also be hosted the same day at the North Lawn’s Olympic Corner. The location holds special significance as Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a historic yoga session there during the 9th International Day of Yoga in 2023.

Reflecting on India’s pivotal role, Harish emphasized that yoga, now practiced globally, became an international movement after the UN adopted a resolution in 2014 to commemorate June 21 as International Yoga Day. He also highlighted India’s legacy in chess, noting the rise of young Indian players on the global stage, including Grandmaster D Gukesh, who became the youngest world chess champion at 18.

The UN Games, introduced through a resolution in September 2024, aim to foster unity, diplomacy, and wellness through sport. With 11 disciplines, including football, basketball, volleyball, and running, this year’s edition expands on the success of the inaugural Games, reflecting a shared commitment to peace and collaboration.

India’s leadership in yoga and chess at the UN Games exemplifies its commitment to promoting health and cultural heritage on the global stage.