Beach Games 2025 kick off in Diu; Mandaviya vows to make it hub for sports tourism
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya believes that the “new” India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, not only dreams big but also provides opportunities to fulfil those dreams.
On Monday, the Beach Games—held under the ever-expanding Khelo India umbrella for the first time—were officially declared open by the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, during a colourful ceremony on Ghoghla Beach, the venue of the Games in Diu.
Speaking about the event, Mandaviya extended his best wishes to the 1,350-plus athletes participating in the competition. He also confirmed that Diu will be developed as a hub for beach games and sports tourism.
“Beach Games 2025 were initiated on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Diu. Over 1,350 athletes are participating across eight disciplines. This is the second edition of the Games. Based on the success of this and the previous edition, Diu has proven to be the best destination for beach games. That’s why the Prime Minister has decided that beach games will continue to be held in Diu in the coming years. It will be developed as a destination for beach games and sports tourism,” Mandaviya told reporters.
“This is the new India under the leadership of PM Modi—one that not only dreams but also creates opportunities to achieve them. These Games aim to empower athletes to bring glory to the country on the global stage,” he added.
Former India cricketer and 2007 T20 World Cup hero Joginder Sharma extended his best wishes to the athletes and told ANI, “I believe these competitions will bring glory to the tricolour at the international level. I wish the athletes great success and hope they win many medals.”
Former India badminton player and Commonwealth Games medalist Trupti Murgunde praised the initiative and told ANI, “Many states have participated—even those without coastlines. The enthusiasm is palpable. Diu is fast emerging as a destination for beach games. This is a fantastic initiative.
