National Sports Day celebrations conclude with call for fitness

GANGTOK, : The second day of the National Sports Day 2025 celebrations, organised by State Sports and Youth Affairs department, concluded at Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE), Reshithang on Friday with a fitness activities, competitions and motivational sessions.

The event commenced with a tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, followed by the recitation of Fit India Pledge. Gangtok MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa attended the event as the chief guest, alongside Urban Development department chairperson Chung Chung Bhutia, who was the guest of honour.

Addressing the gathering, Barfungpa emphasised the importance of physical fitness, stating that fitness is the foundation for all achievements. He urged the youth to embrace a clean and disciplined lifestyle and called for a united fight against drug abuse. "The war is against drugs, and together we must rid society of this evil.” He also emphasised humility, perseverance and sincerity as guiding principles and advised students to study diligently, work hard, and remain grounded while striving for excellence.

Earlier, Sports and Youth Affairs secretary Yangchen D. Tamang, in her welcome address, stating that the programme was part of a nationwide fitness movement aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat and Viksit Sikkim. She encouraged youth to cultivate leadership, resilience and teamwork.

The morning session included motivational talks by sports coaches. Dronacharya awardee and boxing coach Sandhya Gurung shared her mantra of discipline, dedication, and determination. Archery coach Chungda Sherpa spoke on the value of patience and focus, while athletics coach Tashi Rana highlighted discipline as essential to sporting success.

A quiz competition was also conducted to test participants’ knowledge of sports. They winners received prizes during the closing ceremony. Similarly, Sherpa gave a demonstration on archery equipment and techniques to the students of Chief Minister’s Model School.

The afternoon session featured indoor and outdoor competitions including chess, carrom, Fit India Challenge and a 4x100m mixed relay. Traditional games such as tug of war and Pittu were also held.

Thami Dara panchayat member Yam Bahadur Gurung, officials from Sports department HQ, Ranka BAC, and participants from KISCE, State Sports Academy, Luing SSS and Sichey SSS were also present.

The two-day event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony.