On the occasion of National Sports Day on August, 29 which is birth anniversary of legendry Hockey Player Dhyanchand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch ‘Fit India Movement’ on Thursday. The programme will be launched at the same time at mass level in the State also.

Addressing a press meet on Wednesday Director of Sports Department, Government of Jharkhand, Anil Kumar Singh said that the ‘Fit India Movement’ will be started in entire State after launching the programme by the Prime Minister. The Director urged all citizens of the State to participate in large numbers to ensure success of the programme, adding that “We will take a pledge on the day to stay fit”.

Elaborating about the programme Singh said that as part of the movement, common people would be informed about the benefits of staying fit towards leading a healthy life. “Sports is very important for everyone’s life. There is a perception that sports in an extra-curricular activity. We need to bring a change in this system and sports need to be brought in the mainstream. Every person should play some sport,” he added.

“The department has requested all panchayats from across the State to launch the programme at their panchayat and organize sports activity on the day so that the message of the drive could reach to the people of grass root level. All School administration would also ask to organise the programme on their premises so that the students could understand importance of sports in their life,” said Singh.

Informing about the programme the Director said that Sports Minister of the State, Amar Kumar Bauri will inaugurate the programme at Jaipal Singh AstroTurf Hockey Stadium in the State Capital just after the address of the Prime Minister. “Appointment letters, to the 19 coaches who have got permanent jobs to train budding players in the State, will be distributed on the occasion. Other than this the players of the State performed well at the national and international level will get cash award by the Minister on the occasion,” he added.

Replying to a question Singh said that like Mukhyamantri Football Tournaments similar events will also be organised for other sports like Archery, Kabaddi, Hockey and others to promote other sports in the State.