Modi highlights India's emerging sports sector at global summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the NDTV World Summit 2026 on Thursday, using the platform to spotlight India's sporting achievements and growing competitive presence globally. His remarks encompassed progress across multiple athletic domains, reflecting New Delhi's strategic emphasis on sports development as part of national growth objectives.

The PM's comments touched on emerging disciplines gaining traction in India, with references to lesser-known sports such as sepak takraw—a Southeast Asian team sport combining elements of volleyball and badminton. The inclusion of such sports in Modi's remarks underscored efforts to diversify India's athletic portfolio beyond traditional strongholds like cricket and field hockey.

The intervention comes as India has intensified focus on sports infrastructure and athlete development programmes in recent years. Government initiatives have aimed to identify talent across diverse disciplines and provide training support to boost India's medal tally at major international competitions.

Modi's remarks at the NDTV World Summit aligned with the government's broader messaging on India's multi-sectoral progress and modernisation agenda. The emphasis on sports reflects recognition that athletic achievement serves as a visible marker of national capability on the global stage.