The long-awaited 27th Haryana State Sports Festival kicked off on Sunday at Tau Devi Lal Sports Complex, marking its grand return after 13 years. Held under the theme “Mitti se medal tak” (from soil to medal), the event aims to celebrate grassroots talent and boost Haryana’s sporting spirit.
Over 6,000 athletes across 24 sports
More than 6,000 athletes will compete across 24 disciplines, with the festival scheduled to conclude on November 8 in Kurukshetra. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated the event, calling it the state’s own “Olympics,” organised by the Haryana Olympic Association (HOA). Every participant will receive an official sports upgrade certificate, which ensures eligibility for Grade-D government jobs under the 2018 Haryana Sports Policy.
Boost for sporting careers
Saini said the government has created 550 new posts under the Haryana Outstanding Player Service Rules 2021 to provide secure jobs for top performers. Over the past 11 years, the state has distributed ₹641 crore in cash awards and provided sports gear to 15,600 athletes under its equipment scheme.
Usha hails Haryana’s sports culture
Indian Olympic Association president P.T. Usha attended as the chief guest and praised Haryana’s legacy in sports, saying the state’s soil “breeds courage, determination, and world-class athletes.” The opening ceremony featured a colourful parade by athletes representing various sports. For the first time, the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) is conducting random dope tests to ensure fair play.
Building future Olympians
The chief minister called the event a crucial step towards “securing a brighter future for Haryana’s sporting talent” and expressed faith that many future Olympic medallists for 2028, 2032 and 2036 will emerge from this festival. He added that Haryana’s youth power, training infrastructure, and player-centric policies have made it a driving force in India’s sports revolution.
Support at the grassroots level
Highlighting the state’s sports development programs, Saini said Haryana operates 1,489 sports nurseries training over 37,000 players. Athletes aged 8–14 receive ₹1,500 monthly, while those aged 15–19 get ₹2,000. Trainers are paid up to ₹25,000.
‘Dream come true’ for organisers
HOA president Meenu Beniwal described the festival’s comeback as “a dream come true,” crediting coordination and dedication behind the scenes. “These games will help identify emerging talent who can represent India in upcoming events like the 2026 Winter Olympics and the 2028 Olympic Games,” she said.
Athletes inspired by recognition
Young boxer Ritu Malik from Hisar said the festival was her first major platform after years of training. “The facilities and competition make us feel that our hard work is finally recognised,” she said. Players from disciplines such as wrestling, kabaddi, hockey, volleyball, athletics and shooting echoed similar enthusiasm.
Mascot and venues
The festival’s mascot, ‘Mahabali Cheetah’, symbolises speed, courage and victory. Events are being hosted across nine districts including Gurgaon, Hisar, Panchkula and Rohtak, along with New Delhi and Chandigarh.
Honouring Haryana’s legends
The opening day also honoured Padma Shri, Arjuna, Bhim and Dronacharya awardees for their contribution to Indian sports. Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sandeep Singh said the event will help identify and groom future champions through advanced training at the state level.
State-driven sports revival
Unlike the Khelo India Games organised under the central government, the Haryana State Sports Festival is entirely state-led, focusing on local talent development. The 2025 edition is being hailed as a milestone moment in Haryana’s sports journey.
The ceremony was attended by MP Dharambir Singh, MLAs Bimla Chaudhary, Pawan Kharkhoda and Ranbir Singh Panihar, along with several district officials.
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