Bhubaneswar: Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across Odisha are celebrating National Sports Day 2026 from August 28 to 30 with a range of sporting and fitness activities under the national theme, “Khelega Bharat, Jeetega Bharat”. The three-day celebration is being organised around the pillars of Tribute, Play and Move, highlighting the importance of sports in building a healthy, disciplined and confident generation.
The celebrations commemorate the birth anniversary of legendary Indian hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, observed as National Sports Day on August 29. Across EMRS campuses, students are participating enthusiastically in athletics, kabaddi, kho-kho, volleyball, basketball, football, table tennis, chess, yoga and various indigenous games. Schools are also organising floral tributes, sports demonstrations, friendly competitions and fitness activities as part of the celebrations.
A key feature of the programme is “Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein”, which encourages students to spend meaningful time on the playground and make physical activity a regular part of their daily lives. The initiative aims to promote fitness, active lifestyles and greater participation in sports among students.
Principals, teachers, Physical Education Teachers (PETs) and other school staff are actively involved in guiding, supervising and motivating students throughout the programme. Special emphasis is being placed on ensuring safe, inclusive and spirited participation, enabling students of different abilities to take part in sporting activities and experience the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
The National Sports Day celebrations also provide an opportunity to identify and encourage promising sporting talent among EMRS students. Outstanding performances are expected to help nurture young athletes for participation in school, cluster and state-level competitions, creating a stronger pathway towards sporting excellence.
Through the three-day celebration, EMRS Odisha is reinforcing the role of sports as an integral part of holistic education. The initiative seeks to develop not only physical fitness but also discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience, confidence and a sense of responsibility among students.
