Major Investment In Sports Infrastructure And Grassroots Development Is Creating New Opportunities For Coastal And Tribal Youth In Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

The 2026 Khelo India movement began on a high note with Khelo India Beach Games, whose second edition wrapped up at Ghoghla Beach in Diu from January 5 to 11. Athletes from across the country competed in six vibrant beach sports, alongside demonstration events like Mallakhamb and tug of war. Beach soccer emerged as the crowd puller, with Kerala once again claiming the top spot on the podium. However, Union Territories such as Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu (DNHDD) took home valuable exposure, all progress driven by sustained investment in sports infrastructure.

The UT settled for the 6th spot in the medal tally with 8 medals (2 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze). It excelled in beach pencak silat, highlighted by local athlete Prasanna Bendre's gold in the Tanding category. The Union Territory's teams showed competitive spirit in beach soccer, with the men's team achieving a 15-1 win over Himachal Pradesh, though they fell short against top teams like Kerala.​

Development in Sports Infrastructure

World-class facilities are under development across all three districts to support beach sports like soccer. The investments, led by officials such as KIBG director Arun Gupta, focus on grassroots training and creating ecosystems for tribal and coastal youth. The DNHDD beach football team coach, Preet Bhat, also weighed in to praise the initiative. He noted that national platforms such as the Khelo India Beach Games have enabled local players to test themselves at a higher level. "Such exposure has increased players' confidence and contributed to the overall growth of sporting culture in the region," Bhatt said.

"A group of around 20 to 22 players undergoes focused training, after which 12 to 15 are selected for the final squad. Regular practice sessions and preparatory matches are also conducted ahead of major tournaments," Bhatt added while explaining the selection process.

Beach Soccer Highlights

The region's natural beaches aid player adaptation, boosting national-level performances. Local coaching and tournaments from U-10 to senior levels identify talent early. Women's and men's teams gained exposure despite close losses, fostering long-term growth.​

Men’s Team:

DNHDD 15–1 Himachal Pradesh

DNHDD 0–7 Kerala

DNHDD 4–4 Karnataka (lost 3–1 in tie-breaker)

Women’s Team:

DNHDD 5–7 Himachal Pradesh

DNHDD 1–12 Gujarat