38th National Games

.38th National Games: The Indian Prime Minister recently inaugurated the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

• About the event: Organized by Indian Olympic Association (IOA)
• Theme: "Green Games" with eco-friendly medals, trophies made from e-Waste, and trees planted in medalists' names.
• Participants: 36 states and 1 union territory, with over 10,000 athletes competing in 35 sports disciplines.
• New Additions: Yoga and Mallakhamb included as exhibition sports.
• Sustainability: A special "Sports Forest" with 10,000 saplings to be planted.
• Support: Focused on enhancing opportunities for athletes through Khelo India, University Games, and Para Games.
• Uttarakhand's Progress: First state to implement the Uniform Civil Code; hosting major national event, fostering local employment and tourism.
• Olympics Push: India working towards hosting the 2036 Olympics, which will boost sports infrastructure, tourism, and local economy.
• About Mallakhamb: An ancient form of martial arts. It may seem like aerial yoga or gymnastics on a vertical pole (traditionally made of sheesham or Indian rosewood).

o Included in the Khelo India Youth Games programme from 2022.