Tribute to Major Dhyan Chand: Sports Stars Advocate for Emerging Disciplines

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and hockey legend Zafar Iqbal honored Major Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day. They emphasized the need to focus on sports like table tennis and swimming to achieve greater Olympic success. Iqbal highlighted India’s strong performance and the necessity to work hard for the upliftment of sports.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, accompanied by hockey legend Zafar Iqbal, paid tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day. Iqbal stressed the need to emphasize sports like table tennis and swimming for future Olympic success.

The birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, a three-time Olympic gold medalist during the pre-independence era, is celebrated as National Sports Day. Mandaviya underscored the importance of fitness for a healthy society.

Former hockey captain Iqbal expressed satisfaction with India's performance at the Paris Olympics, but noted significant efforts are needed to further uplift sports. He called for attention to sports where India shows potential, like swimming, athletics, and badminton. Iqbal praised the recent achievements in hockey and called for nurturing new talent following key retirements.

(With inputs from agencies.)