On the historic occasion of Independence Day 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, outlining the government’s vision for transforming
On the historic occasion of Independence Day 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, outlining the government’s vision for transforming India into a developed nation. Among various issues, he placed special emphasis on sports, describing it as a crucial pillar of development. PM Modi stressed that the recently approved National Sports Policy (NSP) will ensure the growth of sports from grassroots school levels to Olympic standards, bringing about a cultural and structural shift in the country’s sporting ecosystem.
In his Independence Day 2025 speech, PM Modi reflected on the changing attitudes towards sports in India. He reminded the nation that there was a time when pursuing sports was not considered a viable career option, and children interested in athletics often faced discouragement. “There was a time when parents would scold their children for spending too much time playing games,” he said. “But today, things have changed. Now, when children show interest in sports, parents feel proud and happy. I consider this a very good omen.”
The Prime Minister said this shift in perception is not just encouraging for young athletes but also a matter of pride for the entire nation. “Sports are now finding their rightful place in Indian households, and that is a good sign for the future of our country,” he added.
PM Modi announced that after decades, India has introduced a comprehensive National Sports Policy aimed at revolutionizing the sports sector. Approved by the Cabinet on July 1, the NSP focuses on accountability in sports administration, fostering healthy competition, ensuring fairness, and promoting ethical conduct in all sporting activities.
One of the most significant features of the NSP is the creation of national agencies and inter-ministerial committees for quick decision-making and effective dispute resolution. The policy also outlines innovative funding mechanisms to support sports development, such as:
PM Modi assured the nation that the policy will create an ecosystem for sports that covers every aspect – from world-class coaching and modern fitness programs to cutting-edge infrastructure – and will reach even the most remote parts of the country.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment, PM Modi said, “With the National Sports Policy, we will ensure the development of sports from the school level right up to the Olympic stage. This is not just about winning medals, but about building a healthy and strong India.”
The NSP comes at a time when India is aiming to improve its performance on the global sporting stage. While India’s best-ever Olympic showing came at the Tokyo 2021 Games with seven medals, including one gold, PM Modi believes there is immense untapped potential. “We will create a system where every young Indian with talent and passion for sports gets the opportunity to shine,” he said during his Independence Day 2025 address.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the recent passage of the long-pending National Sports Administration Bill, championed by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The bill introduces a strict regulatory framework for National Sports Federations and a well-defined dispute resolution mechanism, ensuring transparency and accountability.
“This will not only professionalize sports administration in India but also inspire greater trust among athletes and stakeholders,” PM Modi noted.
PM Modi reminded the nation that fitness is an integral part of a vibrant sports culture. He warned about the growing threat of obesity, calling it one of India’s major health challenges. “When I talk about fitness, I must also talk about obesity,” he said. “It is estimated that in the future, every third person in India could be overweight. To win the fight against obesity, we must reduce the use of oil in our food.”
This comment reflects the Prime Minister’s broader vision of integrating fitness into everyday life, making it as important as academic education and professional skills.
PM Modi’s speech during Independence Day 2025 made it clear that sports are not just about entertainment or competition; they are about building the character of the nation. He explained that sports teach discipline, teamwork, resilience, and leadership – qualities that are essential for the growth of a strong and united India.
He also highlighted the social impact of sports, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas. Sports, he said, can be a powerful tool to keep youth away from negative influences and channel their energy towards constructive and nation-building activities.
The Prime Minister called upon not just athletes and sports authorities but also corporates, educational institutions, and the general public to participate in making India a global sporting powerhouse. “This is not a government-only mission,” he said. “It is a national mission. If we come together – as families, schools, communities, and corporates – we can create champions who will make the tricolor fly high at every global stage.”
He urged schools to integrate sports as a mandatory part of the curriculum and for parents to encourage children to actively participate in physical activities.
PM Modi tied his sports development vision to the larger goal of transforming India into a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. He emphasized that a healthy population is the foundation of a developed nation and that sports play a vital role in ensuring physical and mental well-being.
“Sports and fitness go hand in hand,” he remarked. “A nation where citizens are physically fit, disciplined, and determined will always be ready to take on global challenges.”
The Prime Minister concluded his Independence Day 2025 speech with optimism and determination. He reiterated that the government will leave no stone unturned in creating a world-class sports infrastructure and nurturing talent. With the National Sports Policy in place, the passage of sports administration reforms, and growing societal acceptance of sports as a career, PM Modi believes India is ready to take a giant leap forward.
“From every village and district to the grand arenas of the Olympics, the tricolor will shine,” he declared. “We are building not just athletes, but ambassadors of India’s spirit, strength, and unity.”
As the nation celebrated its 79th Independence Day, PM Modi’s focus on sports sent a clear message – in the journey of building a developed India, the role of sports will be as crucial as that of technology, economy, and education.
Also Read : White House Comments on Growing US–Pakistan Ties
Independence Day 2025 was celebrated on 15 August 2025, marking India’s 79th year of independence.
PM Narendra Modi delivered his Independence Day 2025 speech from the historic Red Fort in New Delhi.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of sports in nation-building and highlighted the role of the National Sports Policy in developing sports from school level to the Olympics.
The National Sports Policy is a government initiative aimed at boosting sports infrastructure, improving coaching, ensuring fair play, and fostering sports culture across India.
Key initiatives include “Adopt an Athlete,” “Adopt a District,” “Adopt a Venue,” “One Corporate – One Sport,” and “One PSU – One State.”
